합성 머스크(AHTN, MK)가 제브라피쉬의 발달에 미치는 영향과 담수환경에서의 생태위해성평가

Effects of Synthetic Musk (AHTN, MK) on Zebrafish Development and Ecological Risk Assessment in Freshwater Environments

Background: Synthetic musks such as tonalide (AHTN) and musk ketone (MK) are used as fragrances in various household chemical products. However, there is a lack of research on the ecological risk of these substances and their endocrine-disrupting effects related to the growth hormone (GH) system. Objectives: In this study, we investigated the development and changes in endpoints related to GH in zebrafish larvae exposed to AHTN and MK for 96 h. In addition, the ecological risk was assessed by comparing the predicted no-effect concentration (PNEC) with the measured environmental concentration (MEC). Methods: Zebrafish eggs were exposed to control, solvent control, AHTN (0.03~300 μg/L), and MK (0.03~300 μg/L) for 96 h. Larval development, GH, and changes in gene transcription were investigated. Ecotoxicity data for AHTN and MK in freshwater environments were collected to derive PNEC. The hazard quotient (HQ) was calculated by dividing the MEC for the Korean aquatic environment by the PNEC. Results: AHTN exposure significantly reduced larval length, GH concentration, and transcription of gh1 and ghra , suggesting disruption of GH synthesis and receptor-mediated signaling. MK did not induce significant changes in these endpoints. Ecological risk assessment showed HQ values <1 for both compounds in surface waters, indicating low risk under current environmental concentrations. Conclusions: Our observations suggest that AHTN can interfere with the GH endocrine system and impair development in zebrafish larvae, although current surface water levels of AHTN and MK in South Korea are unlikely to pose significant ecological risks. Continuous monitoring and mechanistic studies are warranted to further clarify their long-term effects.