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Applied Research Case Study
Context:
Developmental deformities in amphibians, feminization of otters, alligators, and fish, and hermaphroditic mollusks are just a few of the adverse effects occurring in our environment that have been linked (or suspected to be linked) to endocrine disrupting compounds, or EDCs. Endocrine disruption occurs when a substance assumes a similar function as a hormone or changes the normal functioning of natural hormones or their regulation.
It is well established that there are a number of natural, pharmaceutical, and synthetic substances discharged into our environment that have the ability to interfere with the endocrine system. These EDCs are of primary concern because of their effects on development, growth, and reproduction in wildlife and humans.
Goal:
To characterize the endocrine-disrupting effects of pure chemicals and industrial effluents and compare in vitro to in vivo methods.
Approach:
• Apply new in vitro procedures for identifying the endocrine-disrupting potential of EDCs using genetically modified yeast cells ( Saccharomyces cervisiae ).
• Determine the effects of EDCs in intact organisms, and assess the results from in vitro assays in relation to development and reproductive performance of animals in vivo [e.g., secondary sexual characteristics (turbercles) of male fathead minnows].
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