Ovarian follicle structure of Zebrafish (Danio rerio Hamilton) after poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) exposure

Abstract

Poly(2-oxazoline)s have been widely known for their biomedical applications. They mimic natural systems and are generally used as liposomes, drug and gene delivery modules and also as pseudopeptides. In this study, effects of different doses (10 and 50 mg/L) of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) on ovarian follicle ultrastructure of zebrafish were investigated with light and electron microscopy. After five days of administation, ovary tissues were disected and routine histological processes were done. Severe structural deformation at zona radiata, follicular epithelium and outer granulosa cell structure were observed. Edema at follicular epithelium, zona radiata and vitelline envelope stuructures were detected. Dose dependent increase in the number of immature oocytes were seen. Briefly, it was demonstrated that poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) exposure affected oogenesis and caused apoptosis in zebrafish.