Biochemical biomarkers in ecotoxicology--some recent developments

Area of Science:

• Environmental toxicology
• Biochemistry
• Molecular biology

Background:

• Biochemical biomarkers are crucial for assessing organismal exposure to environmental chemicals.
• They can indicate toxic effects by reflecting underlying molecular mechanisms of toxicity.
• Ideal biomarkers are sensitive, specific, simple, and use non-destructive sampling methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent progress in the development of various biochemical biomarker assays.
• To differentiate between biomarkers of exposure and biomarkers of toxic effect.
• To highlight the potential of biochemical biomarkers for field studies.

Main Methods:

• Measurement of serum 'B' esterase inhibition for organophosphorus insecticide exposure.
• Assessment of DNA damage (adducts) from aromatic hydrocarbons using 32P-postlabelling.
• Analysis of transthyretin-retinol binding protein complex disturbances.
• Quantification of clotting protein precursors affected by Vitamin K cycle inhibition.

Main Results:

• Serum 'B' esterase inhibition indicates exposure to organophosphorus insecticides in birds.
• DNA adducts, protein complex disturbances, and clotting protein changes serve as biomarkers of toxic effect.
• These biomarkers target specific molecular mechanisms underlying toxicity.
• Several techniques show promise for application in field conditions.

Conclusions:

• Biochemical biomarkers offer valuable tools for assessing chemical exposure and toxicity.
• Distinguishing between exposure and effect biomarkers is essential for accurate risk assessment.
• Combinations of carefully selected biomarkers hold significant potential for environmental monitoring and research.