Stability of oxidative stress biomarkers in flathead mullet, Mugil cephalus, serum during short-term storage

The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by aquatic organisms in response to stressful factor is a common feature in aquatic environment. Thus, the evaluation of parameters related to oxidative stress in fish, in first instance those showing the redox potential, is notable to characterize the environmental conditions. Short-term storage of samples is essential when blood must be transported from collection sites to laboratories. Therefore, excessive delays in processing might compromise the reliability of results. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of short-term storage time at +4 °C on total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxidative stress index (OSI) in flathead mullet (Mugil cephalus) serum. After blood collection, all sample were analyzed and the assays were repeated after 24, 48 and 72 h from sampling. results showed a significant effect of short-term storage on TOS and TAC (P ≤ 0.0001), while the statistical significance of the linear regression study for these parameters was reduced as consequence of storage. These results highlight that the activities of oxidants and antioxidants in flathead mullet serum change during short-term storage at 4 °C and should be assesses as soon as possible from collection.