A simple and extremely sensitive system for detecting estrogenic activity using transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Endocrine systems regulate vital physiological processes.
• Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) interfere with hormone receptors, impacting organisms.
• Effective methods for EDC detection and environmental remediation are crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, low-cost reporter gene assay for comprehensive estrogenic activity analysis.
• To utilize transgenic *Arabidopsis thaliana* for detecting environmental estrogens.
• To establish a sensitive bioassay for endocrine-disrupting chemicals.

Main Methods:

• Creation of transgenic *Arabidopsis thaliana* expressing a chimeric estrogen receptor and coactivator.
• Estrogen-dependent interaction between effector proteins triggers beta-glucuronidase reporter gene activation.
• Detection of estrogenic substances in agar medium using the reporter gene system.

Main Results:

• The transgenic plant system successfully detected 17beta-estradiol at concentrations as low as 50 pM (13 pg/ml).
• The assay demonstrated sensitivity to various estrogenic compounds, including diethylstilbestrol, p-n-nonylphenol, bisphenol A, and Genistein.
• The reporter gene assay provides a comprehensive analysis of estrogenic activity.

Conclusions:

• A simple and cost-effective transgenic plant assay for estrogenic activity has been established.
• This method offers a sensitive tool for detecting a range of endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
• The developed system aids in environmental monitoring and risk assessment of estrogenic pollutants.