Quercetin and taxifolin to enhance immunity in Chinese sucker (Myxocyprinus asiaticus) and resist Aeromonas hydrophila

This study investigated the effects of short-term exposure to flavonoids, specifically quercetin and taxifolin, on the transcriptomic responses of Chinese sucker (Myxocyprinus asiaticus). The aim was to validate their influence on gene expression related to immunity, antioxidant activity, and metabolism, ultimately enhancing the fish's immunity and resistance to Aeromonas hydrophila. We focused on three physiological areas: oxidative stress, immune defense, and glucose metabolism, to assess potential enhancements in immunity. Significant alterations were observed in multiple immune-related KEGG pathways in the liver of Chinese sucker, notably the complement and coagulation cascades, degradation of aromatic compounds, and xenobiotic metabolism by cytochrome P450. Key immune markers such as UGT, MPO, C3, and C4 were highlighted in these pathways, underlining their importance in fish immunity