Chaoqun Zheng, Cheng Chen, Qibo Huang, Jinxin Wang, Liuyan Yang
Electrolysis is a cost-effective and efficient technology for pollutant removal, yet its potential ecological risks remain poorly understood. This study systematically examined the impact of electrolysis zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryonic development and endocrine function through transcriptomic analysis. Findings demonstrated that electrolytic exposure significantly modulated 585 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in thyroid hormone signaling, glucose metabolism, and stress response. qRT-PCR validated the dysregulation of genes associated with ion homeostasis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and cell-matrix interactions, linking these molecular shifts to endocrine disruption and developmental impairments. Additionally, increased Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity and elevated lactate levels indicated a metabolic shift from aerobic to anaerobic energy production. This study constitutes the first comprehensive investigation into the molecular mechanisms of electrolysis-induced endocrine toxicity, providing valuable insights for the biological safety assessment of electrolytic methods employed in water pollution control.