This page has only limited features, please log in for full access.

Unclaimed
Kathi A. Lefebvre
Northwest Fisheries Science Center, Environmental and Fisheries Sciences Division, National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA, 2725 Montlake Blvd E, Seattle, WA 98112, USA

Honors and Awards

The user has no records in this section


Career Timeline

The user has no records in this section.


Short Biography

The user biography is not available.
Following
Followers
Co Authors
The list of users this user is following is empty.
Following: 0 users

Feed

Journal article
Published: 27 July 2021 in Marine Drugs
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Domoic acid (DA), the toxin causing amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP), is produced globally by some diatoms in the genus Pseudo-nitzschia. DA has been detected in several marine mammal species in the Alaskan Arctic, raising health concerns for marine mammals and subsistence communities dependent upon them. Gastrointestinal matrices are routinely used to detect Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) toxin presence in marine mammals, yet DA stability has only been studied extensively in shellfish-related matrices. To address this knowledge gap, we quantified DA in bowhead whale fecal samples at multiple time points for two groups: (1) 50% methanol extracts from feces, and (2) raw feces stored in several conditions. DA concentrations decreased to 70 ± 7.1% of time zero (T0) in the 50% methanol extracts after 2 weeks, but remained steady until the final time point at 5 weeks (66 ± 5.7% T0). In contrast, DA concentrations were stable or increased in raw fecal material after 8 weeks of freezer storage (−20 °C), at room temperature (RT) in the dark, or refrigerated at 1 °C. DA concentrations in raw feces stored in an incubator (37 °C) or at RT in the light decreased to 77 ± 2.8% and 90 ± 15.0% T0 at 8 weeks, respectively. Evaporation during storage of raw fecal material is a likely cause of the increased DA concentrations observed over time with the highest increase to 126 ± 7.6% T0 after 3.2 years of frozen storage. These results provide valuable information for developing appropriate sample storage procedures for marine mammal fecal samples.

ACS Style

Emily Bowers; Raphaela Stimmelmayr; Kathi Lefebvre. Stability of Domoic Acid in 50% Methanol Extracts and Raw Fecal Material from Bowhead Whales (Balaena mysticetus). Marine Drugs 2021, 19, 423 .

AMA Style

Emily Bowers, Raphaela Stimmelmayr, Kathi Lefebvre. Stability of Domoic Acid in 50% Methanol Extracts and Raw Fecal Material from Bowhead Whales (Balaena mysticetus). Marine Drugs. 2021; 19 (8):423.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Emily Bowers; Raphaela Stimmelmayr; Kathi Lefebvre. 2021. "Stability of Domoic Acid in 50% Methanol Extracts and Raw Fecal Material from Bowhead Whales (Balaena mysticetus)." Marine Drugs 19, no. 8: 423.

Article
Published: 03 May 2021 in Marine Mammal Science
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Domoic acid (DA) and saxitoxin (STX)‐producing algae are present in Alaskan seas, presenting exposure risks to marine mammals that may be increasing due to climate change. To investigate potential increases in exposure risks to four pagophilic ice seal species (Erignathus barbatus, bearded seals; Pusa hispida, ringed seals; Phoca largha, spotted seals; and Histriophoca fasciata, ribbon seals), this study analyzed samples from 998 seals harvested for subsistence purposes in western and northern Alaska during 2005–2019 for DA and STX. Both toxins were detected in bearded, ringed, and spotted seals, though no clinical signs of acute neurotoxicity were reported in harvested seals. Bearded seals had the highest prevalence of each toxin, followed by ringed seals. Bearded seal stomach content samples from the Bering Sea showed a significant increase in DA prevalence with time (logistic regression, p = .004). These findings are consistent with predicted northward expansion of DA‐producing algae. A comparison of paired samples taken from the stomachs and colons of 15 seals found that colon content consistently had higher concentrations of both toxins. Collectively, these results suggest that ice seals, particularly bearded seals (benthic foraging specialists), are suitable sentinels for monitoring HAB prevalence in the Pacific Arctic and subarctic.

ACS Style

Alicia M. Hendrix; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Lori Quakenbush; Anna Bryan; Raphaela Stimmelmayr; Gay Sheffield; Gabriel Wisswaesser; Maryjean L. Willis; Emily K. Bowers; Preston Kendrick; Elizabeth Frame; Thomas Burbacher; David J. Marcinek. Ice seals as sentinels for algal toxin presence in the Pacific Arctic and subarctic marine ecosystems. Marine Mammal Science 2021, 1 .

AMA Style

Alicia M. Hendrix, Kathi A. Lefebvre, Lori Quakenbush, Anna Bryan, Raphaela Stimmelmayr, Gay Sheffield, Gabriel Wisswaesser, Maryjean L. Willis, Emily K. Bowers, Preston Kendrick, Elizabeth Frame, Thomas Burbacher, David J. Marcinek. Ice seals as sentinels for algal toxin presence in the Pacific Arctic and subarctic marine ecosystems. Marine Mammal Science. 2021; ():1.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alicia M. Hendrix; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Lori Quakenbush; Anna Bryan; Raphaela Stimmelmayr; Gay Sheffield; Gabriel Wisswaesser; Maryjean L. Willis; Emily K. Bowers; Preston Kendrick; Elizabeth Frame; Thomas Burbacher; David J. Marcinek. 2021. "Ice seals as sentinels for algal toxin presence in the Pacific Arctic and subarctic marine ecosystems." Marine Mammal Science , no. : 1.

Journal article
Published: 01 March 2021 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0

As harmful algal blooms (HABs) increase in magnitude and duration worldwide, they are becoming an expanding threat to marine wildlife. Over the past decade, blooms of algae that produce the neurotoxins domoic acid (DA) and saxitoxin (STX) and documented concurrent seabird mortality events have increased bicoastally in the United States. We conducted a retrospective analysis of HAB related mortality events in California, Washington, and Rhode Island between 2007 and 2018 involving 12 species of seabirds, to document the levels, ranges, and patterns of DA and STX in eight sample types (kidney, liver, stomach, intestinal, cloacal, cecal contents, bile, blood) collected from birds during these events. Samples (n = 182) from 83 birds were examined for DA (n = 135) or STX (n = 17) or both toxins simultaneously (n = 30), using ELISA or LCMS at the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA-NMFS) Wildlife Algal-toxin Research and Response Network (WARRN-West) or the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). DA or STX was detected in seven of the sample types with STX below the minimum detection limit in blood for the three samples tested. DA was found in 70% and STX was found in 23% of all tested samples. The ranges of detectable levels of DA and STX in all samples were 0.65–681,190.00 ng g−1 and 2.00–20.95 ng g−1, respectively. Cloacal contents from a Pacific loon (Gavia pacifica) collected in 2017 from Ventura County, California, had the highest maximum level of DA for all samples and species tested in this study. The highest level of STX for all samples and species was detected in the bile of a northern fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) collected in 2018 from San Luis Obispo County, California. DA detections were consistently found in gastrointestinal samples, liver, bile, and kidney, whereas STX detections were most frequently seen in liver and bile samples. Co-occurring HAB toxins (DA and STX) were detected in white-winged scoters (Melanitta deglandi) in 2009, a Brandt's cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) in 2015, and a northern fulmar and common murre (Uria aalge) in 2018. This article provides DA and STX tissue concentrations and patterns in avian samples and shows the utility of various sample types for the detection of HAB toxins. Future research to understand the pharmacodynamics of these toxins in avian species and to establish lethal doses in various bird species would be beneficial.

ACS Style

Corinne M. Gibble; Raphael M. Kudela; Susan Knowles; Barbara Bodenstein; Kathi A. Lefebvre. Domoic acid and saxitoxin in seabirds in the United States between 2007 and 2018. Harmful Algae 2021, 103, 101981 .

AMA Style

Corinne M. Gibble, Raphael M. Kudela, Susan Knowles, Barbara Bodenstein, Kathi A. Lefebvre. Domoic acid and saxitoxin in seabirds in the United States between 2007 and 2018. Harmful Algae. 2021; 103 ():101981.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Corinne M. Gibble; Raphael M. Kudela; Susan Knowles; Barbara Bodenstein; Kathi A. Lefebvre. 2021. "Domoic acid and saxitoxin in seabirds in the United States between 2007 and 2018." Harmful Algae 103, no. : 101981.

Journal article
Published: 28 February 2021 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Published baseline data on biotoxin exposure in cetaceans is sparse but critical for interpreting mortality events as harmful algal blooms increase in frequency and duration. We present the first synthesis of domoic acid (DA), saxitoxin (STX), okadaic acid (OA), and microcystin detections in the feces and urine of stranded and bycaught southern California cetaceans, over an 18 year period (2001–2018), along with corresponding stomach content data. DA was detected in 13 out of 19 cetacean species, most often in harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) (81.8%, n = 22) and long-beaked common dolphins (Delphinus delphis bairdii) (74%, n = 231). Maximum DA concentrations of 324,000 ng/g in feces and 271, 967 ng/ml in urine were observed in D. d. bairdii. DA was detected more frequently and at higher concentrations in male vs. female D. d. bairdii. Higher fecal DA concentrations in D. d. bairdii were associated with a greater proportion of northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax) in the diet, indicating it may be a primary vector of DA. Fecal DA concentrations for D. d. bairdii off Point Conception were greater than those from animals sampled off Los Angeles and San Diego counties, reflecting greater primary productivity and higher Pseudo-nitzschia spp. abundance in that region and a greater abundance of E. mordax in the diet. STX was detected at low levels (fecal max = 7.5 ng/g, urine max = 17 ng/ml) in 3.6% (n = 165) of individuals from 3 out of 11 species. The occurrence of E. mordax in 100% of the 3 examined stomachs suggests this species could be a primary vector of the detected STX. OA was detected in 2.4% of tested individuals (n = 85) at a maximum fecal concentration of 422.8 ng/g. Microcystin was detected in 14.3% (n = 7) of tested individuals with a maximum liver concentration of 96.8 ppb.

ACS Style

Kerri Danil; Michelle Berman; Elizabeth Frame; Antonella Preti; Spencer E. Fire; Tod Leighfield; Jim Carretta; Melissa L. Carter; Kathi Lefebvre. Marine algal toxins and their vectors in southern California cetaceans. Harmful Algae 2021, 103, 102000 .

AMA Style

Kerri Danil, Michelle Berman, Elizabeth Frame, Antonella Preti, Spencer E. Fire, Tod Leighfield, Jim Carretta, Melissa L. Carter, Kathi Lefebvre. Marine algal toxins and their vectors in southern California cetaceans. Harmful Algae. 2021; 103 ():102000.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kerri Danil; Michelle Berman; Elizabeth Frame; Antonella Preti; Spencer E. Fire; Tod Leighfield; Jim Carretta; Melissa L. Carter; Kathi Lefebvre. 2021. "Marine algal toxins and their vectors in southern California cetaceans." Harmful Algae 103, no. : 102000.

Journal article
Published: 01 February 2021 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are diverse phenomena involving multiple. species and classes of algae that occupy a broad range of habitats from lakes to oceans and produce a multiplicity of toxins or bioactive compounds that impact many different resources. Here, a review of the status of this complex array of marine HAB problems in the U.S. is presented, providing historical information and trends as well as future perspectives. The study relies on thirty years (1990–2019) of data in HAEDAT - the IOC-ICES-PICES Harmful Algal Event database, but also includes many other reports. At a qualitative level, the U.S. national HAB problem is far more extensive than was the case decades ago, with more toxic species and toxins to monitor, as well as a larger range of impacted resources and areas affected. Quantitatively, no significant trend is seen for paralytic shellfish toxin (PST) events over the study interval, though there is clear evidence of the expansion of the problem into new regions and the emergence of a species that produces PSTs in Florida – Pyrodinium bahamense. Amnesic shellfish toxin (AST) events have significantly increased in the U.S., with an overall pattern of frequent outbreaks on the West Coast, emerging, recurring outbreaks on the East Coast, and sporadic incidents in the Gulf of Mexico. Despite the long historical record of neurotoxic shellfish toxin (NST) events, no significant trend is observed over the past 30 years. The recent emergence of diarrhetic shellfish toxins (DSTs) in the U.S. began along the Gulf Coast in 2008 and expanded to the West and East Coasts, though no significant trend through time is seen since then. Ciguatoxin (CTX) events caused by Gambierdiscus dinoflagellates have long impacted tropical and subtropical locations in the U.S., but due to a lack of monitoring programs as well as under-reporting of illnesses, data on these events are not available for time series analysis. Geographic expansion of Gambierdiscus into temperate and non-endemic areas (e.g., northern Gulf of Mexico) is apparent, and fostered by ocean warming. HAB-related marine wildlife morbidity and mortality events appear to be increasing, with statistically significant increasing trends observed in marine mammal poisonings caused by ASTs along the coast of California and NSTs in Florida. Since their first occurrence in 1985 in New York, brown tides resulting from high-density blooms of Aureococcus have spread south to Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, while those caused by Aureoumbra have spread from the Gulf Coast to the east coast of Florida. Blooms of Margalefidinium polykrikoides occurred in four locations in the U.S. from 1921–2001 but have appeared in more than 15 U.S. estuaries since then, with ocean warming implicated as a causative factor. Numerous blooms of toxic cyanobacteria have been documented in all 50 U.S. states and the transport of cyanotoxins from freshwater systems into marine coastal waters is a recently identified and potentially significant threat to public and ecosystem health. Taken together, there is a significant increasing trend in all HAB events in HAEDAT over the 30-year study interval. Part of this observed HAB expansion simply reflects a better realization of the true or historic scale of the problem, long obscured by inadequate monitoring. Other contributing factors include the dispersion of species to new areas, the discovery of new HAB poisoning syndromes or impacts, and the stimulatory effects of human activities like nutrient pollution, aquaculture expansion, and ocean warming, among others. One result of this multifaceted expansion is that many regions of the U.S. now face a daunting diversity of species and toxins, representing a significant and growing challenge to resource managers and public health officials in terms of toxins, regions, and time intervals to monitor, and necessitating new approaches to monitoring and management. Mobilization of funding and resources for research, monitoring and management of HABs requires accurate information on the scale and nature of the national problem. HAEDAT and other databases can be of great value in this regard but efforts are needed to expand and sustain the collection of data regionally and nationally.

ACS Style

Donald M. Anderson; Elizabeth Fensin; Christopher J. Gobler; Alicia E. Hoeglund; Katherine A. Hubbard; David M. Kulis; Jan H. Landsberg; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Pieter Provoost; Mindy L. Richlen; Juliette L. Smith; Andrew R. Solow; Vera L. Trainer. Marine harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the United States: History, current status and future trends. Harmful Algae 2021, 102, 101975 .

AMA Style

Donald M. Anderson, Elizabeth Fensin, Christopher J. Gobler, Alicia E. Hoeglund, Katherine A. Hubbard, David M. Kulis, Jan H. Landsberg, Kathi A. Lefebvre, Pieter Provoost, Mindy L. Richlen, Juliette L. Smith, Andrew R. Solow, Vera L. Trainer. Marine harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the United States: History, current status and future trends. Harmful Algae. 2021; 102 ():101975.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Donald M. Anderson; Elizabeth Fensin; Christopher J. Gobler; Alicia E. Hoeglund; Katherine A. Hubbard; David M. Kulis; Jan H. Landsberg; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Pieter Provoost; Mindy L. Richlen; Juliette L. Smith; Andrew R. Solow; Vera L. Trainer. 2021. "Marine harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the United States: History, current status and future trends." Harmful Algae 102, no. : 101975.

Journal article
Published: 23 May 2019 in Toxins
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Domoic acid (DA)-producing harmful algal blooms (HABs) have been present at unprecedented geographic extent and duration in recent years causing an increase in contamination of seafood by this common environmental neurotoxin. The toxin is responsible for the neurotoxic illness, amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP), that is characterized by gastro-intestinal distress, seizures, memory loss, and death. Established seafood safety regulatory limits of 20 μg DA/g shellfish have been relatively successful at protecting human seafood consumers from short-term high-level exposures and episodes of acute ASP. Significant concerns, however, remain regarding the potential impact of repetitive low-level or chronic DA exposure for which there are no protections. Here, we report the novel discovery of a DA-specific antibody in the serum of chronically-exposed tribal shellfish harvesters from a region where DA is commonly detected at low levels in razor clams year-round. The toxin was also detected in tribal shellfish consumers' urine samples confirming systemic DA exposure via consumption of legally-harvested razor clams. The presence of a DA-specific antibody in the serum of human shellfish consumers confirms long-term chronic DA exposure and may be useful as a diagnostic biomarker in a clinical setting. Adverse effects of chronic low-level DA exposure have been previously documented in laboratory animal studies and tribal razor clam consumers, underscoring the potential clinical impact of such a diagnostic biomarker for protecting human health. The discovery of this type of antibody response to chronic DA exposure has broader implications for other environmental neurotoxins of concern.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Betsy Jean Yakes; Elizabeth Frame; Preston Kendrick; Sara Shum; Nina Isoherranen; Bridget E. Ferriss; Alison Robertson; Alicia Hendrix; David J. Marcinek; Lynn Grattan. Discovery of a Potential Human Serum Biomarker for Chronic Seafood Toxin Exposure Using an SPR Biosensor. Toxins 2019, 11, 293 .

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Betsy Jean Yakes, Elizabeth Frame, Preston Kendrick, Sara Shum, Nina Isoherranen, Bridget E. Ferriss, Alison Robertson, Alicia Hendrix, David J. Marcinek, Lynn Grattan. Discovery of a Potential Human Serum Biomarker for Chronic Seafood Toxin Exposure Using an SPR Biosensor. Toxins. 2019; 11 (5):293.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Betsy Jean Yakes; Elizabeth Frame; Preston Kendrick; Sara Shum; Nina Isoherranen; Bridget E. Ferriss; Alison Robertson; Alicia Hendrix; David J. Marcinek; Lynn Grattan. 2019. "Discovery of a Potential Human Serum Biomarker for Chronic Seafood Toxin Exposure Using an SPR Biosensor." Toxins 11, no. 5: 293.

Journal article
Published: 07 July 2018 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Domoic acid (DA) is a neuroexcitotoxic amino acid that is naturally produced by some species of marine diatoms during harmful algal blooms (HABs). The toxin is transferred through the food web from plantivorous fish and shellfish to marine mammals resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Due to the timing and location of DA producing HABs, it is well documented that pregnant female California sea lions (CSL) are regularly exposed to DA through their diet thereby posing exposure risks to a neuroteratogen in developing fetuses. In the present study, fluids from 36 fetuses sampled from naturally exposed pregnant CSLs were examined for DA. Domoic acid was detected in 79% of amniotic fluid (n = 24), 67% of allantoic fluid (n = 9), 75% of urine (n = 4), 41% of meconium (n = 17) and 29% of stomach content (n = 21) samples opportunistically collected from CSL fetuses. The distribution of DA in fetal samples indicates an increased prenatal exposure risk due to recirculation of DA in fetal fluids and continuous exposure to the developing brain.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Alicia Hendrix; Barbie Halaska; Padraig Duignan; Sara Shum; Nina Isoherranen; David J. Marcinek; Frances M.D. Gulland. Domoic acid in California sea lion fetal fluids indicates continuous exposure to a neuroteratogen poses risks to mammals. Harmful Algae 2018, 79, 53 -57.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Alicia Hendrix, Barbie Halaska, Padraig Duignan, Sara Shum, Nina Isoherranen, David J. Marcinek, Frances M.D. Gulland. Domoic acid in California sea lion fetal fluids indicates continuous exposure to a neuroteratogen poses risks to mammals. Harmful Algae. 2018; 79 ():53-57.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Alicia Hendrix; Barbie Halaska; Padraig Duignan; Sara Shum; Nina Isoherranen; David J. Marcinek; Frances M.D. Gulland. 2018. "Domoic acid in California sea lion fetal fluids indicates continuous exposure to a neuroteratogen poses risks to mammals." Harmful Algae 79, no. : 53-57.

Journal article
Published: 28 February 2018 in Toxins
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Domoic Acid (DA) is a marine-based neurotoxin. Dietary exposure to high levels of DA via shellfish consumption has been associated with Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning, with milder memory decrements found in Native Americans (NAs) with repetitive, lower level exposures. Despite its importance for protective action, the clinical relevance of these milder memory problems remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether repeated, lower-level exposures to DA impact everyday memory (EM), i.e., the frequency of memory failures in everyday life. A cross-sectional sample of 60 NA men and women from the Pacific NW was studied with measures of dietary exposure to DA via razor clam (RC) consumption and EM. Findings indicated an association between problems with EM and elevated consumption of RCs with low levels of DA throughout the previous week and past year after controlling for age, sex, and education. NAs who eat a lot of RCs with presumably safe levels of DA are at risk for clinically significant memory problems. Public health outreach to minimize repetitive exposures are now in place and were facilitated by the use of community-based participatory research methods, with active involvement of state regulatory agencies, tribe leaders, and local physicians.

ACS Style

Lynn M. Grattan; Carol J. Boushey; Yuanyuan Liang; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Laura J. Castellon; Kelsey A. Roberts; Alexandra C. Toben; J. G. Morris. Repeated Dietary Exposure to Low Levels of Domoic Acid and Problems with Everyday Memory: Research to Public Health Outreach. Toxins 2018, 10, 103 .

AMA Style

Lynn M. Grattan, Carol J. Boushey, Yuanyuan Liang, Kathi A. Lefebvre, Laura J. Castellon, Kelsey A. Roberts, Alexandra C. Toben, J. G. Morris. Repeated Dietary Exposure to Low Levels of Domoic Acid and Problems with Everyday Memory: Research to Public Health Outreach. Toxins. 2018; 10 (3):103.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Lynn M. Grattan; Carol J. Boushey; Yuanyuan Liang; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Laura J. Castellon; Kelsey A. Roberts; Alexandra C. Toben; J. G. Morris. 2018. "Repeated Dietary Exposure to Low Levels of Domoic Acid and Problems with Everyday Memory: Research to Public Health Outreach." Toxins 10, no. 3: 103.

Journal article
Published: 27 March 2017 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0

The consumption of one meal of seafood containing domoic acid (DA) at levels high enough to induce seizures can cause gross histopathological lesions in hippocampal regions of the brain and permanent memory loss in humans and marine mammals. Seafood regulatory limits have been set at 20 mg DA/kg shellfish to protect human consumers from symptomatic acute exposure, but the effects of repetitive low-level asymptomatic exposure remain a critical knowledge gap. Recreational and Tribal-subsistence shellfish harvesters are known to regularly consume low levels of DA. The aim of this study was to determine if chronic low-level DA exposure, at doses below those that cause overt signs of neurotoxicity, has quantifiable impacts on cognitive function. To this end, female C57BL/6NJ mice were exposed to asymptomatic doses of DA (≈ 0.75 mg/kg) or vehicle once a week for several months. Spatial learning and memory were tested in a radial water maze paradigm at one, six and 25 weeks of exposure, after a nine-week recovery period following cessation of exposure, and at three old age time points (18, 24 and 28 months old). Mice from select time points were also tested for activity levels in a novel cage environment using a photobeam activity system. Chronic low-level DA exposure caused significant spatial learning impairment and hyperactivity after 25 weeks of exposure in the absence of visible histopathological lesions in hippocampal regions of the brain. These cognitive effects were reversible after a nine-week recovery period with no toxin exposure and recovery was sustained into old age. These findings identify a new potential health risk of chronic low-level exposure in a mammalian model. Unlike the permanent cognitive impacts of acute exposure, the chronic low-level effects observed in this study were reversible suggesting that these deficits could potentially be managed through cessation of exposure if they also occur in human seafood consumers.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Preston S. Kendrick; Warren Ladiges; Emma M. Hiolski; Bridget E. Ferriss; Donald R. Smith; David J. Marcinek. Chronic low-level exposure to the common seafood toxin domoic acid causes cognitive deficits in mice. Harmful Algae 2017, 64, 20 -29.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Preston S. Kendrick, Warren Ladiges, Emma M. Hiolski, Bridget E. Ferriss, Donald R. Smith, David J. Marcinek. Chronic low-level exposure to the common seafood toxin domoic acid causes cognitive deficits in mice. Harmful Algae. 2017; 64 ():20-29.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Preston S. Kendrick; Warren Ladiges; Emma M. Hiolski; Bridget E. Ferriss; Donald R. Smith; David J. Marcinek. 2017. "Chronic low-level exposure to the common seafood toxin domoic acid causes cognitive deficits in mice." Harmful Algae 64, no. : 20-29.

Journal article
Published: 01 May 2016 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Current climate trends resulting in rapid declines in sea ice and increasing water temperatures are likely to expand the northern geographic range and duration of favorable conditions for harmful algal blooms (HABs), making algal toxins a growing concern in Alaskan marine food webs. Two of the most common HAB toxins along the west coast of North America are the neurotoxins domoic acid (DA) and saxitoxin (STX). Over the last 20 years, DA toxicosis has caused significant illness and mortality in marine mammals along the west coast of the USA, but has not been reported to impact marine mammals foraging in Alaskan waters. Saxitoxin, the most potent of the paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins, has been well-documented in shellfish in the Aleutians and Gulf of Alaska for decades and associated with human illnesses and deaths due to consumption of toxic clams. There is little information regarding exposure of Alaskan marine mammals. Here, the spatial patterns and prevalence of DA and STX exposure in Alaskan marine mammals are documented in order to assess health risks to northern populations including those species that are important to the nutritional, cultural, and economic well-being of Alaskan coastal communities. In this study, 905 marine mammals from 13 species were sampled including; humpback whales, bowhead whales, beluga whales, harbor porpoises, northern fur seals, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, ringed seals, bearded seals, spotted seals, ribbon seals, Pacific walruses, and northern sea otters. Domoic acid was detected in all 13 species examined and had the greatest prevalence in bowhead whales (68%) and harbor seals (67%). Saxitoxin was detected in 10 of the 13 species, with the highest prevalence in humpback whales (50%) and bowhead whales (32%). Pacific walruses contained the highest concentrations of both STX and DA, with DA concentrations similar to those detected in California sea lions exhibiting clinical signs of DA toxicosis (seizures) off the coast of Central California, USA. Forty-six individual marine mammals contained detectable concentrations of both toxins emphasizing the potential for combined exposure risks. Additionally, fetuses from a beluga whale, a harbor porpoise and a Steller sea lion contained detectable concentrations of DA documenting maternal toxin transfer in these species. These results provide evidence that HAB toxins are present throughout Alaska waters at levels high enough to be detected in marine mammals and have the potential to impact marine mammal health in the Arctic marine environment.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Lori Quakenbush; Elizabeth Frame; Kathy Burek Huntington; Gay Sheffield; Raphaela Stimmelmayr; Anna Bryan; Preston Kendrick; Heather Ziel; Tracey Goldstein; Jonathan A. Snyder; Tom Gelatt; Frances Gulland; Bobette Dickerson; Verena Gill. Prevalence of algal toxins in Alaskan marine mammals foraging in a changing arctic and subarctic environment. Harmful Algae 2016, 55, 13 -24.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Lori Quakenbush, Elizabeth Frame, Kathy Burek Huntington, Gay Sheffield, Raphaela Stimmelmayr, Anna Bryan, Preston Kendrick, Heather Ziel, Tracey Goldstein, Jonathan A. Snyder, Tom Gelatt, Frances Gulland, Bobette Dickerson, Verena Gill. Prevalence of algal toxins in Alaskan marine mammals foraging in a changing arctic and subarctic environment. Harmful Algae. 2016; 55 ():13-24.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Lori Quakenbush; Elizabeth Frame; Kathy Burek Huntington; Gay Sheffield; Raphaela Stimmelmayr; Anna Bryan; Preston Kendrick; Heather Ziel; Tracey Goldstein; Jonathan A. Snyder; Tom Gelatt; Frances Gulland; Bobette Dickerson; Verena Gill. 2016. "Prevalence of algal toxins in Alaskan marine mammals foraging in a changing arctic and subarctic environment." Harmful Algae 55, no. : 13-24.

Journal article
Published: 20 June 2014 in Aquatic Toxicology
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Domoic acid is an algal-derived seafood toxin that functions as a glutamate agonist and exerts excitotoxicity via overstimulation of glutamate receptors (AMPA, NMDA) in the central nervous system (CNS). At high (symptomatic) doses, domoic acid is well-known to cause seizures, brain lesions and memory loss; however, a significant knowledge gap exists regarding the health impacts of repeated low-level (asymptomatic) exposure. Here, we investigated the impacts of low-level repetitive domoic acid exposure on gene transcription and mitochondrial function in the vertebrate CNS using a zebrafish model in order to: (1) identify transcriptional biomarkers of exposure; and (2) examine potential pathophysiology that may occur in the absence of overt excitotoxic symptoms. We found that transcription of genes related to neurological function and development were significantly altered, and that asymptomatic exposure impaired mitochondrial function. Interestingly, the transcriptome response was highly variable across the exposure duration (36 weeks), with little to no overlap of specific genes across the six exposure time points (2, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 weeks). Moreover, there were no apparent similarities at any time point with the gene transcriptome profile exhibited by the glud1 mouse model of chronic moderate excess glutamate release. These results suggest that although the fundamental mechanisms of toxicity may be similar, gene transcriptome responses to domoic acid exposure do not extrapolate well between different exposure durations. However, the observed impairment of mitochondrial function based on respiration rates and mitochondrial protein content suggests that repetitive low-level exposure does have fundamental cellular level impacts that could contribute to chronic health consequences.

ACS Style

Emma M. Hiolski; Preston S. Kendrick; Elizabeth R. Frame; Mark S. Myers; Theo K. Bammler; Richard P. Beyer; Federico M. Farin; Hui-Wen Wilkerson; Donald R. Smith; David J. Marcinek; Kathi A. Lefebvre. Chronic low-level domoic acid exposure alters gene transcription and impairs mitochondrial function in the CNS. Aquatic Toxicology 2014, 155, 151 -159.

AMA Style

Emma M. Hiolski, Preston S. Kendrick, Elizabeth R. Frame, Mark S. Myers, Theo K. Bammler, Richard P. Beyer, Federico M. Farin, Hui-Wen Wilkerson, Donald R. Smith, David J. Marcinek, Kathi A. Lefebvre. Chronic low-level domoic acid exposure alters gene transcription and impairs mitochondrial function in the CNS. Aquatic Toxicology. 2014; 155 ():151-159.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Emma M. Hiolski; Preston S. Kendrick; Elizabeth R. Frame; Mark S. Myers; Theo K. Bammler; Richard P. Beyer; Federico M. Farin; Hui-Wen Wilkerson; Donald R. Smith; David J. Marcinek; Kathi A. Lefebvre. 2014. "Chronic low-level domoic acid exposure alters gene transcription and impairs mitochondrial function in the CNS." Aquatic Toxicology 155, no. : 151-159.

Journal article
Published: 01 March 2013 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0
ACS Style

Elizabeth A. McHuron; Denise J. Greig; Kathleen M. Colegrove; Michelle Fleetwood; Terry R. Spraker; Frances M.D. Gulland; James T. Harvey; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Elizabeth R. Frame. Domoic acid exposure and associated clinical signs and histopathology in Pacific harbor seals (Phoca vitulina richardii). Harmful Algae 2013, 23, 28 -33.

AMA Style

Elizabeth A. McHuron, Denise J. Greig, Kathleen M. Colegrove, Michelle Fleetwood, Terry R. Spraker, Frances M.D. Gulland, James T. Harvey, Kathi A. Lefebvre, Elizabeth R. Frame. Domoic acid exposure and associated clinical signs and histopathology in Pacific harbor seals (Phoca vitulina richardii). Harmful Algae. 2013; 23 ():28-33.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Elizabeth A. McHuron; Denise J. Greig; Kathleen M. Colegrove; Michelle Fleetwood; Terry R. Spraker; Frances M.D. Gulland; James T. Harvey; Kathi A. Lefebvre; Elizabeth R. Frame. 2013. "Domoic acid exposure and associated clinical signs and histopathology in Pacific harbor seals (Phoca vitulina richardii)." Harmful Algae 23, no. : 28-33.

Research article
Published: 02 May 2012 in PLOS ONE
Reads 0
Downloads 0

The neurotoxic amino acid, domoic acid (DA), is naturally produced by marine phytoplankton and presents a significant threat to the health of marine mammals, seabirds and humans via transfer of the toxin through the foodweb. In humans, acute exposure causes a neurotoxic illness known as amnesic shellfish poisoning characterized by seizures, memory loss, coma and death. Regular monitoring for high DA levels in edible shellfish tissues has been effective in protecting human consumers from acute DA exposure. However, chronic low-level DA exposure remains a concern, particularly in coastal and tribal communities that subsistence harvest shellfish known to contain low levels of the toxin. Domoic acid exposure via consumption of planktivorous fish also has a profound health impact on California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) affecting hundreds of animals yearly. Due to increasing algal toxin exposure threats globally, there is a critical need for reliable diagnostic tests for assessing chronic DA exposure in humans and wildlife. Here we report the discovery of a novel DA-specific antibody response that is a signature of chronic low-level exposure identified initially in a zebrafish exposure model and confirmed in naturally exposed wild sea lions. Additionally, we found that chronic exposure in zebrafish caused increased neurologic sensitivity to DA, revealing that repetitive exposure to DA well below the threshold for acute behavioral toxicity has underlying neurotoxic consequences. The discovery that chronic exposure to low levels of a small, water-soluble single amino acid triggers a detectable antibody response is surprising and has profound implications for the development of diagnostic tests for exposure to other pervasive environmental toxins.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Elizabeth R. Frame; Frances Gulland; John D. Hansen; Preston S. Kendrick; Richard P. Beyer; Theo K. Bammler; Frederico M. Farin; Emma M. Hiolski; Nald R. Smith; David J. Marcinek. A Novel Antibody-Based Biomarker for Chronic Algal Toxin Exposure and Sub-Acute Neurotoxicity. PLOS ONE 2012, 7, e36213 .

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Elizabeth R. Frame, Frances Gulland, John D. Hansen, Preston S. Kendrick, Richard P. Beyer, Theo K. Bammler, Frederico M. Farin, Emma M. Hiolski, Nald R. Smith, David J. Marcinek. A Novel Antibody-Based Biomarker for Chronic Algal Toxin Exposure and Sub-Acute Neurotoxicity. PLOS ONE. 2012; 7 (5):e36213.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Elizabeth R. Frame; Frances Gulland; John D. Hansen; Preston S. Kendrick; Richard P. Beyer; Theo K. Bammler; Frederico M. Farin; Emma M. Hiolski; Nald R. Smith; David J. Marcinek. 2012. "A Novel Antibody-Based Biomarker for Chronic Algal Toxin Exposure and Sub-Acute Neurotoxicity." PLOS ONE 7, no. 5: e36213.

Review article
Published: 31 January 2012 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0
ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Elizabeth R. Frame; Preston S. Kendrick. Domoic acid and fish behavior: A review. Harmful Algae 2012, 13, 126 -130.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Elizabeth R. Frame, Preston S. Kendrick. Domoic acid and fish behavior: A review. Harmful Algae. 2012; 13 ():126-130.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Elizabeth R. Frame; Preston S. Kendrick. 2012. "Domoic acid and fish behavior: A review." Harmful Algae 13, no. : 126-130.

Review article
Published: 15 August 2010 in Toxicon
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Domoic acid is a potent neurotoxin that is naturally produced by several diatom species of the genus Pseudo-nitzschia. The toxin acts as a glutamate agonist and is excitotoxic in the vertebrate central nervous system and other glutamate receptor-rich organs. Human exposure to domoic acid occurs via the consumption of contaminated shellfish that have accumulated the toxin while filter feeding on toxigenic phytoplankton during blooms. The first reported human domoic acid poisoning event occurred in Canada in 1987 during which clinical signs of acute toxicity such as gastrointestinal distress, confusion, disorientation, memory loss, coma and death were observed. The illness was named amnesic shellfish poisoning (ASP) and due to effective seafood monitoring programs there have been no documented ASP cases since 1987. However, domoic acid poisoning has a significant effect on marine wildlife and multiple poisoning events have occurred in marine birds and mammals over the last few decades. Currently, domoic acid producing diatom blooms are thought to be increasing in frequency world wide, posing an increasing threat to wildlife and human health. Of particular concern are the potential impacts of long-term low-level exposure in "at risk" human populations. The impacts of repetitive low-level domoic acid exposure are currently unknown. This review provides a basic description of the mechanism of action of domoic acid as well as a synthesis of information pertaining to domoic acid exposure routes, toxin susceptibility, and the importance of effective monitoring programs. The importance of investigating the potential human health impacts of long-term low-level domoic acid exposure in "at risk" human populations is also discussed.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Alison Robertson. Domoic acid and human exposure risks: A review. Toxicon 2010, 56, 218 -230.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Alison Robertson. Domoic acid and human exposure risks: A review. Toxicon. 2010; 56 (2):218-230.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Alison Robertson. 2010. "Domoic acid and human exposure risks: A review." Toxicon 56, no. 2: 218-230.

Journal article
Published: 01 February 2010 in Harmful Algae
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Between July 2005 and March 2009, 33 northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) were collected after stranding along the central California coast between Sonoma and San Luis Obispo counties. Of these, 26 were collected live and could be observed for signs of neuroexcitotoxicity. Approximately half exhibited the classic clinical signs of domoic acid (DA) toxicosis including muscle twitches and ataxia, to seizures and coma, and had lesions in the central nervous system and heart. Several biological fluids were collected for DA analysis including aqueous humor, serum, stomach contents, feces, urine, abdominal fluid, amniotic fluid and milk. Four analytical methods were employed including receptor binding assay (RBA), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV) and ultra performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS). The DA concentrations determined by each method were positively correlated. Domoic acid was detected in 83% of fecal samples collected from northern fur seals in the present study and in one animal was calculated to contain up to 18.6 μg DA/g. Interestingly, DA was detected and confirmed in the aqueous humor of the only animal this sample-type was collected from, suggesting that this may prove to be a useful diagnostic body fluid for algal toxin detection in marine mammal mortality events. These data document for the first time that northern fur seals are impacted by DA-producing harmful algal blooms along the California coast.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Alison Robertson; Elizabeth R. Frame; Kathleen M. Colegrove; Shelly Nance; Keri A. Baugh; Heather Wiedenhoft; Frances M.D. Gulland. Clinical signs and histopathology associated with domoic acid poisoning in northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) and comparison of toxin detection methods. Harmful Algae 2010, 9, 374 -383.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Alison Robertson, Elizabeth R. Frame, Kathleen M. Colegrove, Shelly Nance, Keri A. Baugh, Heather Wiedenhoft, Frances M.D. Gulland. Clinical signs and histopathology associated with domoic acid poisoning in northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) and comparison of toxin detection methods. Harmful Algae. 2010; 9 (4):374-383.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Alison Robertson; Elizabeth R. Frame; Kathleen M. Colegrove; Shelly Nance; Keri A. Baugh; Heather Wiedenhoft; Frances M.D. Gulland. 2010. "Clinical signs and histopathology associated with domoic acid poisoning in northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) and comparison of toxin detection methods." Harmful Algae 9, no. 4: 374-383.

Comparative study
Published: 01 September 2009 in Toxicon
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), a human illness caused by the ingestion of shellfish contaminated with paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs), has been reported in Alaska for decades. These poisoning incidents have resulted in losses to local economies due to shellfish harvest closures. Thus the development of an effective biotoxin monitoring program designed specifically for the remote regions of Alaska would provide protection for public health and allow for a viable shellfish industry. The present study provides data useful for the development of an effective toxin screening protocol by comparing PST levels quantified in shellfish by many of the currently available PST detection techniques. Seven bivalve species were collected along beaches of the Aleutian Islands from June 2006 to September 2007. The concentration of PSTs was quantified and compared using five different analytical methods: the mouse bioassay, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), receptor-binding assay, the commercially available Jellett Rapid PSP Test strips, and an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay technique. The Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC)-approved HPLC method proved to be valuable for characterizing the suite of individual PSTs in each species for research purposes, but was not considered practical for rapid toxin screening in remote Alaskan regions due to its time-consuming nature and requirement of expensive equipment and considerable expertise. In the present study, Jellett test strips were shown to be an effective tool for rapid screening, however due to the high percentage of false positives, subsequent validation via AOAC-approved methods would be required to prevent unnecessary closures.

ACS Style

Pedro Reis Costa; Keri A. Baugh; Bruce Wright; Raymond RaLonde; Shelly L. Nance; Natália Tatarenkova; Stacey M. Etheridge; Kathi A. Lefebvre. Comparative determination of paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) using five different toxin detection methods in shellfish species collected in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska. Toxicon 2009, 54, 313 -320.

AMA Style

Pedro Reis Costa, Keri A. Baugh, Bruce Wright, Raymond RaLonde, Shelly L. Nance, Natália Tatarenkova, Stacey M. Etheridge, Kathi A. Lefebvre. Comparative determination of paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) using five different toxin detection methods in shellfish species collected in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska. Toxicon. 2009; 54 (3):313-320.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Pedro Reis Costa; Keri A. Baugh; Bruce Wright; Raymond RaLonde; Shelly L. Nance; Natália Tatarenkova; Stacey M. Etheridge; Kathi A. Lefebvre. 2009. "Comparative determination of paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs) using five different toxin detection methods in shellfish species collected in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska." Toxicon 54, no. 3: 313-320.

Comparative study
Published: 14 May 2008 in Marine Drugs
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Traditionally, harmful algal bloom studies have primarily focused on quantifying toxin levels contained within the phytoplankton cells of interest. In the case of paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins (PSTs), intracellular toxin levels and the effects of dietary consumption of toxic cells by planktivores have been well documented. However, little information is available regarding the levels of extracellular PSTs that may leak or be released into seawater from toxic cells during blooms. In order to fully evaluate the risks of harmful algal bloom toxins in the marine food web, it is necessary to understand all potential routes of exposure. In the present study, extracellular and intracellular PST levels were measured in field seawater samples (collected weekly from June to October 2004- 2007) and in Alexandrium spp. culture samples isolated from Sequim Bay, Washington. Measurable levels of intra- and extra-cellular toxins were detected in both field and culture samples via receptor binding assay (RBA) and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Characterization of the PST toxin profile in the Sequim Bay isolates by preMar. column oxidation and HPLC-fluorescence detection revealed that gonyautoxin 1 and 4 made up 65 ± 9.7 % of the total PSTs present. Collectively, these data confirm that extracellular PSTs are present during blooms of Alexandrium spp. in the Sequim Bay region.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Brian D. Bill; Aleta Erickson; Keri A. Baugh; Lohna O’Rourke; Pedro Reis Costa; Shelly Nance; Vera L. Trainer. Characterization of Intracellular and Extracellular Saxitoxin Levels in Both Field and Cultured Alexandrium spp. Samples from Sequim Bay, Washington. Marine Drugs 2008, 6, 103 -116.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Brian D. Bill, Aleta Erickson, Keri A. Baugh, Lohna O’Rourke, Pedro Reis Costa, Shelly Nance, Vera L. Trainer. Characterization of Intracellular and Extracellular Saxitoxin Levels in Both Field and Cultured Alexandrium spp. Samples from Sequim Bay, Washington. Marine Drugs. 2008; 6 (2):103-116.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Brian D. Bill; Aleta Erickson; Keri A. Baugh; Lohna O’Rourke; Pedro Reis Costa; Shelly Nance; Vera L. Trainer. 2008. "Characterization of Intracellular and Extracellular Saxitoxin Levels in Both Field and Cultured Alexandrium spp. Samples from Sequim Bay, Washington." Marine Drugs 6, no. 2: 103-116.

Proceedings
Published: 01 January 2008 in Environmental Health
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are one focus of the national research initiatives on Oceans and Human Health (OHH) at NIEHS, NOAA and NSF. All of the OHH Centers, from the east coast to Hawaii, include one or more research projects devoted to studying HAB problems and their relationship to human health. The research shares common goals for understanding, monitoring and predicting HAB events to protect and improve human health: understanding the basic biology of the organisms; identifying how chemistry, hydrography and genetic diversity influence blooms; developing analytical methods and sensors for cells and toxins; understanding health effects of toxin exposure; and developing conceptual, empirical and numerical models of bloom dynamics. In the past several years, there has been significant progress toward all of the common goals. Several studies have elucidated the effects of environmental conditions and genetic heterogeneity on bloom dynamics. New methods have been developed or implemented for the detection of HAB cells and toxins, including genetic assays for Pseudo-nitzschia and Microcystis, and a biosensor for domoic acid. There have been advances in predictive models of blooms, most notably for the toxic dinoflagellates Alexandrium and Karenia. Other work is focused on the future, studying the ways in which climate change may affect HAB incidence, and assessing the threat from emerging HABs and toxins, such as the cyanobacterial neurotoxin β-N-methylamino-L-alanine. Along the way, many challenges have been encountered that are common to the OHH Centers and also echo those of the wider HAB community. Long-term field data and basic biological information are needed to develop accurate models. Sensor development is hindered by the lack of simple and rapid assays for algal cells and especially toxins. It is also critical to adequately understand the human health effects of HAB toxins. Currently, we understand best the effects of acute toxicity, but almost nothing is known about the effects of chronic, subacute toxin exposure. The OHH initiatives have brought scientists together to work collectively on HAB issues, within and across regions. The successes that have been achieved highlight the value of collaboration and cooperation across disciplines, if we are to continue to advance our understanding of HABs and their relationship to human health.

ACS Style

Deana L Erdner; Julianne Dyble; Michael L Parsons; Richard C Stevens; Katherine A Hubbard; Michele L Wrabel; Stephanie K Moore; Kathi A Lefebvre; Donald M Anderson; Paul Bienfang; Robert R Bidigare; Micaela S Parker; Peter Moeller; Larry E Brand; Vera L Trainer. Centers for Oceans and Human Health: a unified approach to the challenge of harmful algal blooms. Environmental Health 2008, 7, S2 -S2.

AMA Style

Deana L Erdner, Julianne Dyble, Michael L Parsons, Richard C Stevens, Katherine A Hubbard, Michele L Wrabel, Stephanie K Moore, Kathi A Lefebvre, Donald M Anderson, Paul Bienfang, Robert R Bidigare, Micaela S Parker, Peter Moeller, Larry E Brand, Vera L Trainer. Centers for Oceans and Human Health: a unified approach to the challenge of harmful algal blooms. Environmental Health. 2008; 7 (2):S2-S2.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Deana L Erdner; Julianne Dyble; Michael L Parsons; Richard C Stevens; Katherine A Hubbard; Michele L Wrabel; Stephanie K Moore; Kathi A Lefebvre; Donald M Anderson; Paul Bienfang; Robert R Bidigare; Micaela S Parker; Peter Moeller; Larry E Brand; Vera L Trainer. 2008. "Centers for Oceans and Human Health: a unified approach to the challenge of harmful algal blooms." Environmental Health 7, no. 2: S2-S2.

Journal article
Published: 13 July 2005 in Marine Biology
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Herring (Clupea harengus pallasi) spawning sites in Puget Sound, Washington overlap spatially and temporally with blooms of Alexandrium catenella, a toxic dinoflagellate species responsible for paralytic shellfish poisoning. Consequently, newly hatched herring larvae may be regularly exposed to the suite of dissolved paralytic shellfish toxins that are released into the water column from toxic cells during blooms. To date, virtually nothing is known about the impacts of these neurotoxins on early developmental stages of marine fish. In the present study, herring larvae at three ages, 0 days post hatch (dph), 4 dph, and 11 dph, were exposed to dissolved saxitoxin (STX) in 24-h and multi-day exposures. All larvae were examined for sensorimotor function (i.e. spontaneous swimming behavior and touch response). Significant reductions in spontaneous and touch-activated swimming behavior occurred within 1 h of exposure. EC50s at 1 h of exposure were 1,500, 840, and 700 μg STX equiv. l−1 for larvae introduced to STX at 0, 4, and 11 dph, respectively. This progressive age-specific increase in STX-induced paralysis suggests that older larvae were more sensitive to the toxin than younger larvae. Interestingly, herring larvae at all ages exhibited a significant degree of neurobehavioral recovery within 4–24 h of continuous exposure relative to the 1-h time point. This recovery of normal motor behaviors was not observed in previous studies with freshwater zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae under the same continuous exposure conditions, suggesting that an adaptive detoxification or toxin sequestration mechanism may have evolved in some species of marine fish larvae. Our data reveal that (1) dissolved STX is bioavailable to marine finfish larvae, (2) the toxin is a paralytic agent with potencies that differ between developmental stages, and (3) STX-induced sensorimotor inhibition occurs rapidly but is transient in marine larvae. Collectively, these results suggest that dissolved algal toxins may have important sublethal effects on marine fish populations.

ACS Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Nancy E. Elder; Paul K. Hershberger; Vera L. Trainer; Carla M. Stehr; Nathaniel Scholz. Dissolved saxitoxin causes transient inhibition of sensorimotor function in larval Pacific herring (Clupea harengus pallasi). Marine Biology 2005, 147, 1393 -1402.

AMA Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre, Nancy E. Elder, Paul K. Hershberger, Vera L. Trainer, Carla M. Stehr, Nathaniel Scholz. Dissolved saxitoxin causes transient inhibition of sensorimotor function in larval Pacific herring (Clupea harengus pallasi). Marine Biology. 2005; 147 (6):1393-1402.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Kathi A. Lefebvre; Nancy E. Elder; Paul K. Hershberger; Vera L. Trainer; Carla M. Stehr; Nathaniel Scholz. 2005. "Dissolved saxitoxin causes transient inhibition of sensorimotor function in larval Pacific herring (Clupea harengus pallasi)." Marine Biology 147, no. 6: 1393-1402.