Gold nanoparticles and oxidative stress in Mytilus edulis

Little is known about potential environmental impact of nanoparticles. Gold nanoparticles can cause unexpected biological responses. Here, Mytilus edulis were exposed (24h) to gold-citrate nanoparticles (GNP), menadione and both compounds simultaneously (GNP/menadione). Protein ubiquitination and carbonylation were determined in gill, mantle and digestive gland, along with traditional oxidative stress biomarkers; catalase activity and neutral red retention time assay (haemolymph). 2DE gels were performed on gill proteins (menadione; GNP/menadione). Our results reveal that GNP may induce oxidative stress.