Use of biomarkers in the biomonitoring of surface water pollution

Surface water pollution by active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is a major problem in Africa,
particularly in urban and industrial areas, having adverse effects on the health of aquatic ecosystems and on
the environment. The use of biomarkers in the biomonitoring of this pollution in Africa offers a promising approach
to assess water quality and protect human and environmental health. This study aims to analyze the effects of
biomarkers on active pharmaceutical ingredients source of surface water pollution in the strategies of
bioremediation of aquatic ecosystems. This study with an analytical and descriptive aim will take into account the watercourses of the
deltaic zone of southern Benin. In total, 120 samples consisting of water, fish, sediments containing earthworms and
aquatic plants were collected during two seasons of the year. Firstly, physicochemical tests,
biological and genotypic will be carried out. Then, the enzymatic activities of the different pollutants in the body were
determined for the enzymes: Ascorbate peroxidase (APX), Mono-dehydro-ascorbate reductase (MDHAR), Glutathione
reductase (GR) and Superoxide dismutases (SODs). Histological and metabolomic alterations of contaminated fish
will be observed. It appears from the study that the majority of the samples collected were contaminated on a physico-chemical level and
biological. More than 50%, the biological and physicochemical modifications generated the modifications at the enzymatic level.
Fish contaminated with chemical and biological products showed changes in the kidneys and livers
proving their toxicity in vivo. These results provide a solid basis for guiding future research and policy.
water quality management.

Presented by AMADOU Affoussatou at the 2nd West African Plant Science Symposium