An integrated transcriptome-microbiome host relationship associated with paraben toxicity in the brackish water flea Diaphanosoma celebensis

Abstract

Parabens, a group of alkyl esters of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, have been found in aquatic systems in particular, leading to concerns about their potential impact on ecosystems. This study investigated the effects of three commonly used parabens, methylparaben (MeP), ethylparaben (EtP), and propylparaben (PrP), on the brackish water flea Diaphanosoma celebensis. The results showed that PrP had the most adverse impact on survival rates, followed by EtP and MeP, while MeP and EtP induced significant adverse effects on reproductive performance. A transcriptome analysis revealed significant differential gene expression patterns in response to paraben exposure, with MeP associated with the most significant effects. MeP and EtP exposure produced greater disruption in the microbiota of D. celebensis than did PrP compared with control groups, and we identified eight key microbiota, including Ruegeria and Roseovarius. Correlation analysis between transcriptome and microbiome data revealed key interactions between specific microbiota and host gene expression. Certain microbial taxa were associated with specific genes (e.g. cuticle related genes) and toxicological pathways, shedding light on the complex molecular response and in vivo toxicity effects of parabens. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying paraben toxicity and highlight the importance of considering the ecological impact of chemical contaminants in aquatic ecosystems.