Publication Abstract

ICES paper on bioassay-directed analysis and how it can inform ecosystem management decisions.

K. V. Thomas, J. Balaam, Y. Chan-Man, M.R. Hurst, J.E. Thain

In vitro cell bioassays, used on their own or in combination with bioassay-directed analysis, are useful biological effect techniques when used to inform marine ecosystem management decisions. Five applied examples are used to demonstrate this; in vitro yeast oestrogen screen characterisation of offshore produced water effluents, in vitro CALUX®, YES and MutatoxÔ characterisation of estuarine sediments, bioassay-directed analysis of produced water effluents for oestrogen receptor agonists, bioassay-directed analysis of marine sediments for potential genotoxins and bioassay-directed analysis of waste water effluents and estuarine surface waters for androgen and oestrogen receptor agonists. The examples demonstrate how in vitro cell bioassays are sensitive, specific, and rapid bio-analytical tools that can account for interactions between compounds as well as those for which activity is unknown. Bioassay-directed analysis allows these unknowns to be identified whilst also allowing sources to be identified. Used as part of an integrated approach, knowing which substances represent a hazard is crucial in assessing the risk posed by hazardous substances to marine ecosystems.

Reference:

K. V. Thomas, J. Balaam, Y. Chan-Man, M.R. Hurst, J.E. Thain. 2004. ICES paper on bioassay-directed analysis and how it can inform ecosystem management decisions. ICES ASC Vigo Spain September 2004