An insight into the molecular mechanisms of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) mediated dysregulation of glucose and lipid homeostasis in Heteropneustes fossilis

Abstract

The study emphasises how ubiquitous persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are and how terrible they are for the environment, specifically because of their tendency to build up in living things and cause a variety of health problems, including diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disorders. Due to POPs affinity for lipid-rich tissues, they accumulate in a variety of organs, where they cause metabolic disruption and initiate various anabolic pathways. Studies that use fish as a model organism clarify the metabolic effects of POPs, demonstrating non-adipose lipid accumulation and abnormal glucose homeostasis. Further research on molecular mechanisms shows that POPs interact with gluconeogenic enzymes, causing blood glucose levels to rise. These results are supported by histological and biochemical examinations of fish exposed to POPs, which show changes in lipid composition and cause cellular damage. Molecular docking computational studies demonstrate POPs propensity for binding to gluconeogenic enzymes, providing insight into their potential to promote hyperglycaemia. This study provides a thorough summary of POPs harmful effects on organisms, highlighting their molecular and toxicological, impacts while arguing for better knowledge of their toxicity to vertebrates’ developing embryos. © 2025 Elsevier Inc.