Biotransformation environmental factors

This section focuses on (1) a discussion of the overall process of biodegradation, (2) a review of the different types, aspects and phases of biodegradation of several classes of organic pollutants, (3) an examination of the environmental factors affecting biodegradation and biotransformation mechanisms, and (4) a description of the different biodegradation and biotransformation pathways. 

V. Environmental factors that affect pesticide biotransformation... 

Biotransformation plays a significant role in species differences in susceptibility with many resistant species capable of pesticide detoxification, whereas susceptible species tend to bioactivate compounds to more reactive intermediates which may be more toxic. Environmental factors such as salinity and co-exposure to environmental hormones may also significantly affect biotransformation and potential toxicity of pesticides in fish. Clearly, preliminary studies with chemical mixtures have demonstrated a role for biotransformation in subsequent synergistic and antagonistic whole animal endpoints. Further work is necessary in this area as concomitant exposure represents a more realistic setting of xenobiotic exposure to fish since many pesticides are used in combination or may occur in waterways at the same time of the year. 

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