Micronuclei in Fish Erythrocytes as Genotoxic Biomarkers of Water Pollution: An Overview

Freshwater and marine water bodies receive chemical contaminants from industrial, agricultural, urban, and domestic wastes. Eco-genotoxicity assays are useful tools to assess the cumulative genotoxicity of these pollutants. Fish are suitable indicators for biomonitoring of mutagenic and carcinogenic pollution. In this review, we present a complete overview of the studies performed so far using the micronucleus test in peripheral erythrocytes of fish exposed to polluted water. We have listed all the species of fish used and the geographical distribution of the investigations. We have analyzed and discussed all technical aspects of using this test in fish, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the different experimental protocols. We have reported the results of all studies. This assay has become, for years, one of the simplest, fastest, and most cost-effective for assessing genotoxic risk in aquatic environments. However, there are still several factors influencing the variability of the results. Therefore, we have given indications and suggestions to achieve a standardization of experimental procedures and ensure uniformity of future investigations.