Effects of environmentally relevant cypermethrin and sulfamethoxazole on intestinal health, microbiome, and liver metabolism in grass carp

The incorrect use of antibiotics and pesticides poses significant risks of biological toxicity. Their simultaneous exposure could jeopardize fish health and hinder sustainable aquaculture. Here, we subjected grass carp to waterborne cypermethrin (0.65 μg/L) or/and sulfamethoxazole (0.30 μg/L) treatments for a duration of 6 weeks. We closely monitored the effects on intestinal function, the intestinal microbiome, and the liver metabolome. The results revealed that exposure to waterborne cypermethrin or/and sulfamethoxazole compromised intestinal barrier function and decreased the expression of intestinal tight junction proteins. Additionally, heightened levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the intestines and reduced antioxidant levels indicated systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, with more severe effects observed in the combined exposure group. 16S rRNA sequencing of intestinal tissues suggested Firmicutes play a key role in the intestinal microbiota. GC/MS metabolomics of the liver showed more differential metabolites (56) in the co-exposure group compared to cypermethrin (45) or sulfamethoxazole (32) alone, indicating greater toxicological effects with combined exposure. Our analyses also suggest that ATP-binding cassette transporters could serve as a novel endpoint for assessing the risk of pesticide and antibiotic mixtures in grass carp. In summary, this study underscores the potential ecological risks posed by antibiotics and pesticides to aquatic environments and products. It emphasizes the importance of the gut-liver axis as a comprehensive pathway for assessing the toxicity in fish exposed to environmental contaminants.