Title: Development of tools for assessing genotoxicity
Author: V Cheung
Author: T Galloway
Author: Environment Agency
Document Type: Monograph
Annotation: Environment Agency Project ID:EAPRJOUT_1423, Representation ID: 480, Object ID: 2578
Abstract:
Investigations were carried out to assess the potential for biomarkers of genotoxicity to be applied in association with currently employed direct toxicity assessment (DTA) methods in the same target species. The conclusions and recommendations from this report are as follows: - The chromosome aberration (CAb) assay was successfully developed and validated against reference mutagens in the embryo-larval stages of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas. - The CAb assay was successfully applied to test the genotoxic potential of whole effluents and sediment elutriates using the embryo-larval stages of C. gigas. - As a method for routine monitoring of environmental samples, the CAb assay is somewhat laborious compared with some DTA methods. In addition, fully trained and experienced staff are required to observe and analyse the chromosomes. This restricts the testing of numerous water samples for genotoxic potential. But compared with other methods (Ames and GreenScreen assays), it appeared to be the most sensitive in terms of detecting genotoxicity. - The induction of metallothionein, inhibition of acetylcholine esterase activity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power may be useful measures of sub-lethal biological effects. Further optimisation and validation is required for these methods in Arenicola marina. Cause-effect relationships can only be extrapolated with additional inter-discipline data. - Initial results indicate that other methods for detecting genotoxic effects such at the Comet assay can be applied in species such as A. marina. Application of this method requires further optimisation and validation.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Subject Keywords: Genetics; Toxicity; Estuaries; Coastal waters; Hazards; Methodology; Brackishwater environment; Marine environment
Taxonomic Keywords: Crassostrea gigas; Arenicola marina
Extent: 69
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:4676
Total file downloads: 285
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