Response of prolactin cells of stinging catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis to Euphorbia royleana treatment

Abstract

Effect of Euphorbia royleana on prolactin cells were investigated in Heteropneustes fossilis. Fish were subjected to 2.47mg/L and 0.618 mg/L of Euphorbia royleana for short- and long-term, respectively. Blood was collected on 24, 48, 72 and 96 h in short-term and after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days in long-term experiment and was analyzed for serum calcium levels. Pituitary glands were fixed on 24, 48, 72 and 96 h in short-term and after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days in long-term experiment. Serum calcium levels of treated H. fossilis declined progressively from 48 h till 96 h. Latex of Euphorbia royleana provoked a decrease in serum calcium level on day 7 which progresses till 28 days. No histological alteration was observed in prolactin cells throughout the short- term exposure of Euphorbia royleana. Nuclear volume of prolactin cells exhibited an increase after 14 day. Also these cells exhibited degranulation. These changes increased progressively 21 day onwards. Degenerating cells were discerned after 28 day following the treatment.