Accumulation and metabolism of phenanthrene in Norway lobster (Nephrops norvegicus)

Abstract

[9-14 c] Phenanthrene was administered to Norway lobster, Nephrops norvegicus, intragastricly and the radioactivity in different tissues were measured at intervals using a scintillation counter. The radioactivity was rapidly accumulated in the tissues and the highest concentration was measured 1 day after administration. Most of the radioactivity had disappeared 28 days after the administration. The metabolites of phenanthrene were isolated from the green gland, gonads and intestine. The analyses of the TMS-derivatives of the metabolit.es were performed using a computerized gas chromatograph mass spectrometer. A total of six metaboli.tes were isolated and identified. Quantitative studies were carried out using selected ion monitoring. The main metabolite found was 9,10-dihydro-9,10-dihydroxyphenanthrene which constituted 78, 95 and 64% of the total metabolic products in green gland, gonads and intestine, respectively. In green gland 41% of the metabolites were conjugated, in gonads 50% and in intestine 23%.