Grantee Research Project Results
Use of a Tumor Marker to Monitor Exposure to Aquatic Pollutants in the Brown Bullhead
EPA Grant Number: R823520Title: Use of a Tumor Marker to Monitor Exposure to Aquatic Pollutants in the Brown Bullhead
Investigators: Schumm, Dorothy E.
Institution: The Ohio State University
EPA Project Officer: Hahn, Intaek
Project Period: August 1, 1995 through August 1, 1998
Project Amount: $285,021
RFA: Exploratory Research - Environmental Biology (1995) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Biology/Life Sciences , Human Health , Aquatic Ecosystems
Description:
The purpose of this project is to develop an ELISA assay for a 55,000 dalton tumor marker protein (OFP) which has been found in the blood of brown bullhead with liver tumors. OFP has been associated with carcinogen exposure and tumor formation in a number of animal species. OFP will be purified from the blood of tumor-bearing brown bullhead and monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies prepared. An ELISA assay utilizing these antibodies will be used to determine the blood levels of OFP in fish taken from polluted sites (Black or Cuyahoga Rivers in Ohio) with those taken from reference sites (Old Woman's Creek or Touissant River in Ohio). The OFP levels in the blood of these fish will be compared with the histopathology of the liver and the polycylic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) levels in the bile. In addition, the antibodies will be used for immuno-histochemical staining of the livers of brown bullhead in order to identify neoplastic and preneoplastic lesions. Ultimately, the project will produce an assay for the evaluation of biologically significant environmental exposure to PAH in aquatic habitats.Supplemental Keywords:
Scientific Discipline, Geographic Area, Ecosystem Protection/Environmental Exposure & Risk, State, Chemistry, Monitoring/Modeling, Biology, Pathology, aquatic ecosystem, assays, biomarkers, fish kills, liver tumors, PAH, biomonitoring, Ohio (OH), antibodiesProgress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.