In vitro cytotoxicity of metals to seabream and sea bass leucocytes follows the order of MeHg > Cd > As > Pb.
Sea bass leucocytes are more resistant to metals than seabream leucocytes. PBLs also more resistant than HKLs.
Leucocytes show alteration of oxidative stress and cellular protection leading to apoptosis.
Metals down-regulated the expression of immune-relevant genes in vitro.