In vivo effects of cadmium chloride on certain aspects of protein metabolism in tissues of a freshwater field crab Barytelphusa guerini

The influence of cadmium on protein metabolism on tissues of the freshwater field crab Barytelphusa guerini was researched. This species is frequently exposed to sublethal cadmium chloride levels in paddy fields. Protein profiles of individual crabs showed a considerable loss in protein content on the 15th day of exposure to sublethal Cd concentrations, with a maximum depletion in thoracic ganglion. A severe loss of free amino acids after 15 d was also noted. Alterations in enzyme activities and metabolite profiles indicate the possibility of compensatory mechanisms as a result of impaired carbohydrate metabolism.