ABSTRACT
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To assess the single and combined effects of estrone (E1) and 17β-estradiol (E2) on goldfish (Carassius auratus).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Batch tests were conducted. Serum levels of vitellogenin (VTG) and E2, gonadosomatic indices (GSI), gonadal DNA damage and liver 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity were measured after exposure for 14 days.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The VTG level increased significantly in a concentration-dependent manner. The serum E2 level was significantly higher and the GSI level was significantly lower in goldfish after exposed to the 3 drugs. DNA damage occurred in treated samples and EROD activity was significantly suppressed 7 days after exposure. The joint effect of E1 and E2 was additive with regard to VTG induction.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The results of our study highlight a series of effects of steroidal estrogens on goldfish. Further study is needed to confirm their effect as a whole.</p>