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PCB126 induces deformities during pectoral fin development in little skate
Citation:
Rei-Mohammed, C., D. Nacci, B. Clark, D. Champlin, AND R. Merson. PCB126 induces deformities during pectoral fin development in little skate. West Coast Biological Sciences Undergraduate Research (WCBSUR) Conference, San Diego, CA, April 09 - 10, 2016.
Impact/Purpose:
This presentation describes how an important class of pollutants, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which are ubiquitous legacy chemicals found throughout the environment, can affect marine wildlife and ecosystems.
Description:
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are ubiquitous legacy chemicals found throughout the environment, which can accumulate in humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Some PCBs are agonists of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) and are potent teratogens in bony fish. Leucoraja erinacea (little skate) embryos were excased and exposed to 3,3’,4,4’,5-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 126) for six days, then maintained in clean water for 29 days. Embryos were visually examined and imaged throughout the experimental period. At the end of the experiment, tissues were cleared and stained with alcian blue (cartilage) and alizarin red (calcification) to reveal the structure of the fins. Out of 30 embryos, 63% developed pectoral fin deformities, which are observed in embryos exposed to concentrations of PCB 126 as low as 20 parts per trillion. Abnormal growth occurs on both the anterior and posterior margins of the pectoral fins resulting in a loss of connection with the rostrum. Results of this study demonstrate that skate embryos are susceptible to PCB 126 induced developmental deformities at relatively low concentrations. Studies are underway to investigate the connection between fin development and AHR signaling.