Lysosomal perturbations in fish liver as indicators for toxic effects of environmental pollution.

1. Lysomones play a key role in liver injury in fish caused by organic and inorganic xenobiotics. The lysosomal stability test was transferred to fish liver with the aim of testing responsive and practicable methods for biological-effects monitoring. 2. A two-step response of lysosomes in fish liver could be discerned, reflected by the activity (number and size of lysosomes) and the injury (membrane destabilisation) of the lysosomal detoxifying system. 3. Significant differences, with respect to lysosomal enlargement, membrane stability and pathological lipid accumulation, were found along a pollution gradient throughout the year. 4. The lysosomal tests clearly reflect the breakdown of the adaptive capacity of the fish liver to toxic injury. Therefore, a test battery measuring lysosomal perturbations should be recommended for the biological-effects monitoring.