Effects evaluation of sertraline exposure on metabolic disturbances in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes)

Abstract

Sertraline is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It is frequently detected in aquatic environment because it cannot be completely degraded in the sewage plants. The effects and mechanisms of sertraline in mammals are well understood. However, its chronic effects in fish have been poorly evaluated. In this study, Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) was exposed to sertraline for 14 days, and the effects of sertraline on the fish brain were evaluated using a metabolomics approach. Exposure to 115 µg/L sertraline increased glutamate levels; however, this effect was suggested to be suppressed by several amino acids after 14 days of exposure. The effects in fish exposed to sertraline are unlikely to occur in actual aquatic environments.