Mixed-Function Oxidase Studies in the Redfish, Sciaenops-Ocellata, from Galveston Bay, Texas

The metabolism of parathion to para-nitrophenol (PNP) in redfish (Sciaenops ocellata ) liver microsomes has been both identified and characterized. This mixed-function oxidase (MFO) reaction in redfish requires NADPH and is inhibited by carbon monoxide. It exhibits a temperature optimum of 25 degree C but no clear pH optimum between 7.0-8.5. Redfish hepatic microsomal MFOs were not induced by 2.5 days after a single i.p. injection of 88 mg Aroclor 1254/kg body wt, but under the same dosage and time conditions male albino Swiss mice were significantly induced (p < 0.05).