Dynamics of cytochrome P450 inducers in polluted sites of São Paulo city reservoirs.

The first analysis of water pollutants using biomarkers at the Guarapiranga Reservoir, which supplies water for one-third of the population of the São Paulo megalopolis (Brazil), is reported. Studies were performed before and after the start of water pumping to the Guarapiranga from the highly polluted Billings reservoir. Billings's water was purified by passing through the natural wetland located near Guarapiranga. Liver enzymes of Oreochromis niloticus (tilopias) obtained from both reservoirs served as biomarkers of pollution in a comparison with animals obtained from a reference site. Enhanced levels of total cytochromes P450 (3.4 times) and b5 (2.7 times) and activity of cytochrome c (P450) reductase (2.2 times) were observed in specimens collected near the water influx from the Billings before the pumping started. However, these parameters were significantly decreased 3 months later. This effect is probably due to dilution of pollutants because of the increased level of water in the Guarapiranga.