[ Objective] The toxicity effect of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) on alga growth in eutrophic water was studied to provide reference for biomonitoring and bioremediation of eutrophic water. [ Method ] The mother liquid of alga,...[ Objective] The toxicity effect of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) on alga growth in eutrophic water was studied to provide reference for biomonitoring and bioremediation of eutrophic water. [ Method ] The mother liquid of alga, which was separated from the eutrophic water, were put into the solutions of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) with different concentrations and their mixture solution, respectively. And the toxicity effect of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) on the growth and propagation of alga in eutrophic water was observed. [ Result] The alga in eutrophic water performed rather sensitive to Cr(Ⅵ) and when its concentration was over 1 mg/L, threre was obvious effect on alga growth. The alga was not very sensitive to Hg^2+ when its concentration was lower, but its toxicity became stronger and stronger when its concentration increased to some extent and the toxicity effect of Cr(Ⅵ) on alga growth was just on the contrary. When the ion concentration was lower than 10 mg/L, the toxicity of Hg^2+ on alga was lower than that of Cr(Ⅵ). When the concentration was over 10 mg/L, the toxicity of Hg^2+ exceeded that of Cr(Ⅵ). The toxicity of ion mixture solution of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) had synergism inhibition on alga, which could be performed only when the concentration was over 4 mg/L. [ Conclusion] The toxicity of heavy metal on alga not only related to the alga cell, but also related to the concentration of heavy metal ion.展开更多
The variations of environmental abundance and microcystin-LR (MC-LR) production ability of toxic Microcystis in the Nanquan region of Lake Taihu are investigated by real-time quantitative PCR (RTQ-PCR) and high pe...The variations of environmental abundance and microcystin-LR (MC-LR) production ability of toxic Microcystis in the Nanquan region of Lake Taihu are investigated by real-time quantitative PCR (RTQ-PCR) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) from May to December in 2009. Simultaneously, degrees of water pollution and eutrophication are monitored. The results indicate that the water quality in the Nanquan region of Lake Taihu is in a moderate degree of pollution and eutrophication. Algal density exceeds the threshold of bloom from May to November. The environmental abundance of toxic Microcystis is more than 40% from May to October and then significantly declines to 5.66% due to the obvious reduction in the water temperature in December. From May to December, the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis ranges from 1.661 to 9.293 μg/108cells. With the significant drops in water temperature and algal density, the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis is obviously increased from November to December. It is concluded that the lake presents Microcystis bloom and the toxic Microcystis becomes dominant during most of the year. The environmental abundance and the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis have a close relationship with water temperature. The effective control of toxic Microcystis should be considered in both the bloom period and the non-bloom period of winter since the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis obviously increases in winter.展开更多
The bioaccumulation and toxicity of heavy metals were reviewed with special reference to microalgae, the key compo- nent of the food web in aquatic ecosystems. Heavy metals enter algal cells either by means of active ...The bioaccumulation and toxicity of heavy metals were reviewed with special reference to microalgae, the key compo- nent of the food web in aquatic ecosystems. Heavy metals enter algal cells either by means of active transport or by endocytosis through chelating proteins and affect various physiological and biochemical processes of the algae. The toxicity primarily results from their binding to the sulphydryl groups in proteins or disrupting protein structure or displacing essential elements. Metals can break the oxidative balance of the algae, inducing antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). The amount of oxidized proteins and lipids in the algal cells thus indicates the severity of the stress. Algal tolerance to heavy metal is highly dependent upon the defense response against the probable oxidative damages. Pro- duction of binding factors and proteins, exclusion of metals from cells by ion-selective transporters and excretion or compartmen- talization have been suggested with regard to reducing heavy metal toxicity. However, a comprehensive description on the mecha- nisms underlining metal toxicity of microalgae and gaining tolerance is yet to be elaborated.展开更多
The toxicity of seven major HAB (harmful algal bloom) species/strains, Prorocentrum donghaiense, Phaeocystis globosa, Prorocentrum micans, Alexandrium tamarense (AT-6, non-PSP producer), Alexandrium lusitanicum, A...The toxicity of seven major HAB (harmful algal bloom) species/strains, Prorocentrum donghaiense, Phaeocystis globosa, Prorocentrum micans, Alexandrium tamarense (AT-6, non-PSP producer), Alexandrium lusitanicum, Alexandrum tamarense (ATHK) and Heterosigma akashiwo were studied against rotifer Brachionus plicatilis under laboratory conditions. The results show that P donghaiense, P. globosa, P. micans, A. tamarense (AT-6), or A. lusitanicum could maintain the individual survival and reproduction, as well as the population increase of the rotifer, but the individual reproduction would decrease when exposed to these five algae at higher densities for nine days; H. akashiwo could decrease the individual survival and reproduction, as well as population increase of the rotifer, which is similar to that of the starvation group, indicating that starvation might be its one lethal factor except for the algal toxins; A. tamarense (ATHK) has strong lethal effect on the rotifer with 48h LCs0 at 800 cells/mL. The experiment on ingestion ability indicated by gut pigment change shows that P. donghaiense, P. globosa, P micans, A. tamarense (AT-6) and A. lusitanicum can be taken by the rotifers as food, but A. tamarense (ATHK) or H. akashiwo can be ingested by the rotifers. The results indicate that all the indexes of individual survival and reproduction, population increase, gut pigment change of the rotifers are good and convenient to be used to reflect the toxicities of HAB species. Therefore, rotifer is suggested as one of the toxicity testing organisms in detecting the toxicity of harmful algae.展开更多
The toxicity and bioaccumulation of selenite in four microalgae, Spirulina platensis, Dunaliella salina, Dunaliella bardawill and Phaeodactylum tricornutum cultured in the presence of selenite were investigated. Lower...The toxicity and bioaccumulation of selenite in four microalgae, Spirulina platensis, Dunaliella salina, Dunaliella bardawill and Phaeodactylum tricornutum cultured in the presence of selenite were investigated. Lower concentrations of selenite were generally nontoxic and frequently stimulated algal growth, while higher concentrations of selenite inhibited algal growth. Selenite was more toxic to D. salina and D. bardawill than to S. platensis and P. tricornutum . All algae cultured in selenite were able to incorporate Se to different degrees, which depended on algal species. The distributions of selenite among intracellular macromolecular compounds were different among algal species: most of the selenite was associated with proteins in S. platensis, D. salina and D. bardawill , while most of the selenite was associated with lipids in P. tricornutum , which reflected the physiological differences among the algae. These observations suggest that algae are able to accumulate selenite and bind it with intracellular macromolecular compounds when exposed to high concentration of selenite. This may represent a form of storage or detoxification of selenite by the algae.展开更多
The potential allelopathic effects of the microalga,Phaeocystis globosa Scherffel,on three harmful bloom algae,Prorocentrum donghaiense Lu,Chattonella marina(Subrahmanyan) Hara et Chihara and Chattonella ovata Hara et...The potential allelopathic effects of the microalga,Phaeocystis globosa Scherffel,on three harmful bloom algae,Prorocentrum donghaiense Lu,Chattonella marina(Subrahmanyan) Hara et Chihara and Chattonella ovata Hara et Chihara were studied.The growth of C.marina and C.ovata was markedly reduced when the organisms were co-cultured with P.globosa or cultured in cell-free spent medium.Haemolytic extracts from P.globosa cells in the senescence phase had a similar inhibitory effect on the three harmful bloom algae.However,P.globosa had less influence on the brine shrimp,Artemia salina.These results indicate that P.globosa may have an allelopathic effect on microalgae,which would explain the superior competitive abilities of P.globosa.Because the addition of the haemolytic toxins from P.globosa had similar effects on algae as spent media,these compounds may be involved in the allelopathic action of P.globosa.展开更多
The mechanisms by which oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes rid itself of Escherichia coli or faecal coliforms are still not clearly understood. This study sought to review the various means by which E. coli or faecal co...The mechanisms by which oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes rid itself of Escherichia coli or faecal coliforms are still not clearly understood. This study sought to review the various means by which E. coli or faecal coliforms are inactivated or removed in lakes. The review cited temperature, solar radiation, predation, starvation, attachment and sedimentation as key factors that aid the removal of E. coli in lakes. In eutrophic lakes additional factors such as the role of algal biomass may play a role due to increased pH and dissolved oxygen levels attributed to algal presence. Algal toxins or exudates may also play a role although this is still under debate. The interactive effect of two or more of these factors on E. coli inactivation and the relative importance of these mechanisms on E. coli removal are still not known. Areas for further research include the role of algae in sedimenting E. coli or faecal coliforms and the possible role of algal exudates on E. coli inactivation.展开更多
Microcystis often dominates phytoplankton in eutrophic lakes and must survive a long period of cold or dark conditions. However, the survival strategies of Microcystis to withstand cold or dark stress are less well kn...Microcystis often dominates phytoplankton in eutrophic lakes and must survive a long period of cold or dark conditions. However, the survival strategies of Microcystis to withstand cold or dark stress are less well known. In this study, we conducted experiments on the responses of two toxic Microcystis aeruginosa strains (FACHB-905 and FACHB-915) and their microcystin release in conditions of low temperature (15℃ or 4℃, with illumination) or darkness, and subsequent recovery in standard conditions (25℃ with illumination). On exposure to 15℃, a small decrease in cell viability was observed, but the cell number increased gradually, suggesting that M. aeruginosa FACHB-905 and FACHB-915 cells seem in general tolerant in 15℃. Interestingly, our results show that a higher carotenoid content and microcystin release potentially enhance the fitness of surviving cells at 15℃. M. aeruginosa cells exposed to lower temperature light stress (4℃) did not completely lose viability and retained the ability to reinitiate growth. In darkness, the maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm) and the maximum electron transport rate (ETRmax) values and cell viability of M. aeruginosa cells gradually decreased with time. During the recovery period, the photosynthetic efficiency of M. aeruginosa reverted to the normal level. Additionally, M. aeruginosa FACHB-905 and FACHB-915 exposed to low temperature had increased caspase-3-1ike activity and DNA fragmentation, which suggests the occurrence of a type of cell death in M. aeruginosa cells under cold stress similar to programmed cell death. Overall, our findings could confer certain advantages on the Microcystis for surviving cold or dark conditions encountered in the annual cycle, and help explain its repeated occurrence in water blooms in large and shallow lakes.展开更多
From 2007 to 2009, large-scale blooms of green algae (the so-called "green tides") occurred every summer in the Yellow Sea, China. In June 2008, huge amounts of floating green algae accumulated along the coa...From 2007 to 2009, large-scale blooms of green algae (the so-called "green tides") occurred every summer in the Yellow Sea, China. In June 2008, huge amounts of floating green algae accumulated along the coast of Qingdao and led to mass mortality of cultured abalone and sea cucumber. However, the mechanism for the mass mortality of cultured animals remains undetermined. This study examined the toxic effects of Ulva (Enteromorpha) prolifera, the causative species of green tides in the Yellow Sea during the last three years. The acute toxicity of fresh culture medium and decomposing algal effluent of U. prolifera to the cultured abalone Haliotis discus hannai were tested. It was found that both fresh culture medium and decomposing algal effluent had toxic effects to abalone, and decomposing algal effluent was more toxic than fresh culture medium. The acute toxicity of decomposing algal effluent could be attributed to the ammonia and sulfide presented in the effluent, as well as the hypoxia caused by the decomposition process.展开更多
AIM: To assess the defensive nature of Sargassum polycystum (S. polycystum) (Brown alga) against acetaminophen (AAP)-induced changes in drug metabolizing microsomal enzyme system, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α...AIM: To assess the defensive nature of Sargassum polycystum (S. polycystum) (Brown alga) against acetaminophen (AAP)-induced changes in drug metabolizing microsomal enzyme system, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and fine structural features of the liver during toxic hepatitis in rats. METHODS: Male albino Wistar strain rats used for the study were randomly categorized into 4 groups. Group Ⅰ consisted of normal control rats fed with standard diet. Group II rats were administered with acetaminophen (800 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally). Group Ⅲ rats were pre-treated with S. polycystum extract alone. Group IV rats were orally pre-treated with S. polycystum extract (200 mg/kg body weight for 21 d) prior to acetaminophen induction (800 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally). Serum separated and liver was excised and microsomal fraction was isolated for assaying cytochrome P450, NADPH Cyt P450 reductase and bs. Serum TNF-α was detected using ELISA. Fine structural features of liver were examined by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: Rats intoxicated with acetaminophen showed considerable impairment in the activities of drug metabolizing microsomal enzymes, such as cytochrome P450, NADPH Cyt P450 reductase and bs when compared with the control rats. The rats intoxicated with acetaminophen also significantly triggered serum TNF-a when compared with the control rats. These severe alterations in the drug metabolizing enzymes were appreciably pretreated with S. polycystum. prevented in the rats The rats pretreated withS. polycystum showed considerable inhibition in the elevation of TNF-α compared to the rats intoxicated with acetaminophen. The electron microscopic observation showed considerable loss of structural integrity of the endoplasmic reticulum, lipid infiltration and ballooning of mitochondria in the acetaminophen-intoxicated rats, whereas the rats treated with S. polycystum showed considerable protection against acetaminophen-induced alterations in structural integrity. CONCLUSION: These observations suggest that the animals treated with S. polycystum extract may have the ability to protect the drug metabolizing enzyme system and mitochondrial functional status from free radical attack, thereby showing its defense mechanism in protecting hepatic cells from acetaminophen toxic metabolite N-acetyl-para-benzoquinone-imine (NAPQI).展开更多
Coccolithophorid is unicellular marine microalgae with a global distribution in temperate and sub-temperate oceanic regions and has the ability to produce 'the coccoliths'. It is considered to be the second most pro...Coccolithophorid is unicellular marine microalgae with a global distribution in temperate and sub-temperate oceanic regions and has the ability to produce 'the coccoliths'. It is considered to be the second most productive calcifying organism on earth and becoming an important factor in the global carbonate cycle. Emiliania huxleyi is one of the only two bloom-forming coccolithophores and becomes a species crucial to the study of global biogeochemical cycles and climate modeling. Coccolithoviruse is a recently discovered group of viruses infecting the marine coceolithophorid E. huxleyi. They are a major cause of coceolithophore bloom termination, and DMSP concentration is increasing in the process of viral lysis. Phylogenetic evidences support that some genes are functional both in E. huxleyi and its virus (EhV). Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of multiple functionally coupled enzymes occurs in E. huxleyi and its DNA virus EhV has been confirmed, which contributes to the diversification and adaptation of plankton in the oceans and also critically regulates virus-host infection by allowing viruses to control host metabolic pathways for their repli- cation. Therefore, it is of particular interest to understand this host-virus interaction. On this issue, we have made a minireview of coeeolithoviruses focusing on the basic characteristics, phylogenesis, horizontal gene transfer and the interaction between the host and its viruses, as well as its important role in global biogeochemical cycling.展开更多
Nanoparticles,or particles in size of 1-100 nm,are extensively used in the world in different applications.For instance,single-walled carbon nanotubes(SWCNTs) are commonly used in consumer products,such as biosensors,...Nanoparticles,or particles in size of 1-100 nm,are extensively used in the world in different applications.For instance,single-walled carbon nanotubes(SWCNTs) are commonly used in consumer products,such as biosensors,drug and vaccine delivery transporters,and novel biomaterials.Although nanoparticles do not cause safety concerns to consumers who use nanoparticle-containing products,these small particles are potentially harmful for workers who produce them in factories or in cases of discharge to aquatic ecosystems.SWCNTs do not have a natural analogue,so the effects on health of their disposal remain largely unknown.In this study,we evaluated the effects of SWCNTs on a population of the green microalga Chromochloris zofingiensis and the profile and production of pigments and fatty acids.The alga was incubated with SWCNTs for 6 days in 0(control),40,80,160,or 320 mg/L concentrations.SWCNTs showed both positive and negative effects on the growth of C.zofingiensis,with a biomass enhancement at low levels(40-160 mg/L) but inhibition at high levels(320 mg/L).By contrast,a decreased accumulation of fatty acids and pigments of C.zofingiensis was observed over the range of the tested concentrations.These results indicate that the markers on the inhibitive toxicity of SWCNTs are increasingly sensitive in the following order:biomass and fatty acids < primary carotenoids < chlorophylls < secondary carotenoids.C.zofingiensis is a suitable microalga for evaluating the ecotoxicological hazards of SWCNTs,especially in terms of pigmentation response.展开更多
In this paper, we have investigated a model with three interacting species: non-toxic phy- toplankton, toxic phytoplankton and zooplankton with Holling type II and III functional responses over the space and time. Th...In this paper, we have investigated a model with three interacting species: non-toxic phy- toplankton, toxic phytoplankton and zooplankton with Holling type II and III functional responses over the space and time. The role of toxin producing phytoplankton (TPP) has been studied. We have presented the theoretical analysis of pattern formation in spatially distributed population with local diffusion. The paper highlights the hetero- geneity of HABs over space and time. The choice of parameter values and the functional response is important to study the effect of TPP, also it would depend more on the non- linearity of the system. With the help of numerical simulations, we have observed the spatial and spatiotemporal patterns for plankton system. This study demonstrates that TPP plays an important role in controlling the dynamics. We have observed that prey's anti-predator efforts promote predator switching. It has been found that high predation of TPP helps for the coexistence of toxic, non-toxic phytoplankton and zooplankton population.展开更多
文摘[ Objective] The toxicity effect of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) on alga growth in eutrophic water was studied to provide reference for biomonitoring and bioremediation of eutrophic water. [ Method ] The mother liquid of alga, which was separated from the eutrophic water, were put into the solutions of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) with different concentrations and their mixture solution, respectively. And the toxicity effect of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) on the growth and propagation of alga in eutrophic water was observed. [ Result] The alga in eutrophic water performed rather sensitive to Cr(Ⅵ) and when its concentration was over 1 mg/L, threre was obvious effect on alga growth. The alga was not very sensitive to Hg^2+ when its concentration was lower, but its toxicity became stronger and stronger when its concentration increased to some extent and the toxicity effect of Cr(Ⅵ) on alga growth was just on the contrary. When the ion concentration was lower than 10 mg/L, the toxicity of Hg^2+ on alga was lower than that of Cr(Ⅵ). When the concentration was over 10 mg/L, the toxicity of Hg^2+ exceeded that of Cr(Ⅵ). The toxicity of ion mixture solution of Hg^2+ and Cr(Ⅵ) had synergism inhibition on alga, which could be performed only when the concentration was over 4 mg/L. [ Conclusion] The toxicity of heavy metal on alga not only related to the alga cell, but also related to the concentration of heavy metal ion.
基金The National Key Technologies R& D Program of Chinaduring the11th Five-Year Plan Period(No.2008ZX07101-011)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30972440)+1 种基金the NaturalScience Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.BK2008320)the 333 Project Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No.07056)
文摘The variations of environmental abundance and microcystin-LR (MC-LR) production ability of toxic Microcystis in the Nanquan region of Lake Taihu are investigated by real-time quantitative PCR (RTQ-PCR) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) from May to December in 2009. Simultaneously, degrees of water pollution and eutrophication are monitored. The results indicate that the water quality in the Nanquan region of Lake Taihu is in a moderate degree of pollution and eutrophication. Algal density exceeds the threshold of bloom from May to November. The environmental abundance of toxic Microcystis is more than 40% from May to October and then significantly declines to 5.66% due to the obvious reduction in the water temperature in December. From May to December, the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis ranges from 1.661 to 9.293 μg/108cells. With the significant drops in water temperature and algal density, the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis is obviously increased from November to December. It is concluded that the lake presents Microcystis bloom and the toxic Microcystis becomes dominant during most of the year. The environmental abundance and the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis have a close relationship with water temperature. The effective control of toxic Microcystis should be considered in both the bloom period and the non-bloom period of winter since the MC-LR production ability of toxic Microcystis obviously increases in winter.
文摘The bioaccumulation and toxicity of heavy metals were reviewed with special reference to microalgae, the key compo- nent of the food web in aquatic ecosystems. Heavy metals enter algal cells either by means of active transport or by endocytosis through chelating proteins and affect various physiological and biochemical processes of the algae. The toxicity primarily results from their binding to the sulphydryl groups in proteins or disrupting protein structure or displacing essential elements. Metals can break the oxidative balance of the algae, inducing antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). The amount of oxidized proteins and lipids in the algal cells thus indicates the severity of the stress. Algal tolerance to heavy metal is highly dependent upon the defense response against the probable oxidative damages. Pro- duction of binding factors and proteins, exclusion of metals from cells by ion-selective transporters and excretion or compartmen- talization have been suggested with regard to reducing heavy metal toxicity. However, a comprehensive description on the mecha- nisms underlining metal toxicity of microalgae and gaining tolerance is yet to be elaborated.
基金Supported by the Knowledge Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Sciences (No. KZCX2-YW-208)National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 40821004, U0733006)National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program, No. 2001CB409700)
文摘The toxicity of seven major HAB (harmful algal bloom) species/strains, Prorocentrum donghaiense, Phaeocystis globosa, Prorocentrum micans, Alexandrium tamarense (AT-6, non-PSP producer), Alexandrium lusitanicum, Alexandrum tamarense (ATHK) and Heterosigma akashiwo were studied against rotifer Brachionus plicatilis under laboratory conditions. The results show that P donghaiense, P. globosa, P. micans, A. tamarense (AT-6), or A. lusitanicum could maintain the individual survival and reproduction, as well as the population increase of the rotifer, but the individual reproduction would decrease when exposed to these five algae at higher densities for nine days; H. akashiwo could decrease the individual survival and reproduction, as well as population increase of the rotifer, which is similar to that of the starvation group, indicating that starvation might be its one lethal factor except for the algal toxins; A. tamarense (ATHK) has strong lethal effect on the rotifer with 48h LCs0 at 800 cells/mL. The experiment on ingestion ability indicated by gut pigment change shows that P. donghaiense, P. globosa, P micans, A. tamarense (AT-6) and A. lusitanicum can be taken by the rotifers as food, but A. tamarense (ATHK) or H. akashiwo can be ingested by the rotifers. The results indicate that all the indexes of individual survival and reproduction, population increase, gut pigment change of the rotifers are good and convenient to be used to reflect the toxicities of HAB species. Therefore, rotifer is suggested as one of the toxicity testing organisms in detecting the toxicity of harmful algae.
文摘The toxicity and bioaccumulation of selenite in four microalgae, Spirulina platensis, Dunaliella salina, Dunaliella bardawill and Phaeodactylum tricornutum cultured in the presence of selenite were investigated. Lower concentrations of selenite were generally nontoxic and frequently stimulated algal growth, while higher concentrations of selenite inhibited algal growth. Selenite was more toxic to D. salina and D. bardawill than to S. platensis and P. tricornutum . All algae cultured in selenite were able to incorporate Se to different degrees, which depended on algal species. The distributions of selenite among intracellular macromolecular compounds were different among algal species: most of the selenite was associated with proteins in S. platensis, D. salina and D. bardawill , while most of the selenite was associated with lipids in P. tricornutum , which reflected the physiological differences among the algae. These observations suggest that algae are able to accumulate selenite and bind it with intracellular macromolecular compounds when exposed to high concentration of selenite. This may represent a form of storage or detoxification of selenite by the algae.
基金Supported by the NSFC-Guangdong Province Association Foundation(No.U0733006)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30970502)the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science(Xiamen University MEL0403)
文摘The potential allelopathic effects of the microalga,Phaeocystis globosa Scherffel,on three harmful bloom algae,Prorocentrum donghaiense Lu,Chattonella marina(Subrahmanyan) Hara et Chihara and Chattonella ovata Hara et Chihara were studied.The growth of C.marina and C.ovata was markedly reduced when the organisms were co-cultured with P.globosa or cultured in cell-free spent medium.Haemolytic extracts from P.globosa cells in the senescence phase had a similar inhibitory effect on the three harmful bloom algae.However,P.globosa had less influence on the brine shrimp,Artemia salina.These results indicate that P.globosa may have an allelopathic effect on microalgae,which would explain the superior competitive abilities of P.globosa.Because the addition of the haemolytic toxins from P.globosa had similar effects on algae as spent media,these compounds may be involved in the allelopathic action of P.globosa.
文摘The mechanisms by which oligotrophic and eutrophic lakes rid itself of Escherichia coli or faecal coliforms are still not clearly understood. This study sought to review the various means by which E. coli or faecal coliforms are inactivated or removed in lakes. The review cited temperature, solar radiation, predation, starvation, attachment and sedimentation as key factors that aid the removal of E. coli in lakes. In eutrophic lakes additional factors such as the role of algal biomass may play a role due to increased pH and dissolved oxygen levels attributed to algal presence. Algal toxins or exudates may also play a role although this is still under debate. The interactive effect of two or more of these factors on E. coli inactivation and the relative importance of these mechanisms on E. coli removal are still not known. Areas for further research include the role of algae in sedimenting E. coli or faecal coliforms and the possible role of algal exudates on E. coli inactivation.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31070355,31370418)
文摘Microcystis often dominates phytoplankton in eutrophic lakes and must survive a long period of cold or dark conditions. However, the survival strategies of Microcystis to withstand cold or dark stress are less well known. In this study, we conducted experiments on the responses of two toxic Microcystis aeruginosa strains (FACHB-905 and FACHB-915) and their microcystin release in conditions of low temperature (15℃ or 4℃, with illumination) or darkness, and subsequent recovery in standard conditions (25℃ with illumination). On exposure to 15℃, a small decrease in cell viability was observed, but the cell number increased gradually, suggesting that M. aeruginosa FACHB-905 and FACHB-915 cells seem in general tolerant in 15℃. Interestingly, our results show that a higher carotenoid content and microcystin release potentially enhance the fitness of surviving cells at 15℃. M. aeruginosa cells exposed to lower temperature light stress (4℃) did not completely lose viability and retained the ability to reinitiate growth. In darkness, the maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm) and the maximum electron transport rate (ETRmax) values and cell viability of M. aeruginosa cells gradually decreased with time. During the recovery period, the photosynthetic efficiency of M. aeruginosa reverted to the normal level. Additionally, M. aeruginosa FACHB-905 and FACHB-915 exposed to low temperature had increased caspase-3-1ike activity and DNA fragmentation, which suggests the occurrence of a type of cell death in M. aeruginosa cells under cold stress similar to programmed cell death. Overall, our findings could confer certain advantages on the Microcystis for surviving cold or dark conditions encountered in the annual cycle, and help explain its repeated occurrence in water blooms in large and shallow lakes.
基金Supported by the National Key Technology R&D Program (No. 2008BAC49B01)the National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program) (No. 2010CB428705)the Foundation for Innovative Research Groups of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 40821004)
文摘From 2007 to 2009, large-scale blooms of green algae (the so-called "green tides") occurred every summer in the Yellow Sea, China. In June 2008, huge amounts of floating green algae accumulated along the coast of Qingdao and led to mass mortality of cultured abalone and sea cucumber. However, the mechanism for the mass mortality of cultured animals remains undetermined. This study examined the toxic effects of Ulva (Enteromorpha) prolifera, the causative species of green tides in the Yellow Sea during the last three years. The acute toxicity of fresh culture medium and decomposing algal effluent of U. prolifera to the cultured abalone Haliotis discus hannai were tested. It was found that both fresh culture medium and decomposing algal effluent had toxic effects to abalone, and decomposing algal effluent was more toxic than fresh culture medium. The acute toxicity of decomposing algal effluent could be attributed to the ammonia and sulfide presented in the effluent, as well as the hypoxia caused by the decomposition process.
基金Supported by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi, India
文摘AIM: To assess the defensive nature of Sargassum polycystum (S. polycystum) (Brown alga) against acetaminophen (AAP)-induced changes in drug metabolizing microsomal enzyme system, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and fine structural features of the liver during toxic hepatitis in rats. METHODS: Male albino Wistar strain rats used for the study were randomly categorized into 4 groups. Group Ⅰ consisted of normal control rats fed with standard diet. Group II rats were administered with acetaminophen (800 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally). Group Ⅲ rats were pre-treated with S. polycystum extract alone. Group IV rats were orally pre-treated with S. polycystum extract (200 mg/kg body weight for 21 d) prior to acetaminophen induction (800 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally). Serum separated and liver was excised and microsomal fraction was isolated for assaying cytochrome P450, NADPH Cyt P450 reductase and bs. Serum TNF-α was detected using ELISA. Fine structural features of liver were examined by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: Rats intoxicated with acetaminophen showed considerable impairment in the activities of drug metabolizing microsomal enzymes, such as cytochrome P450, NADPH Cyt P450 reductase and bs when compared with the control rats. The rats intoxicated with acetaminophen also significantly triggered serum TNF-a when compared with the control rats. These severe alterations in the drug metabolizing enzymes were appreciably pretreated with S. polycystum. prevented in the rats The rats pretreated withS. polycystum showed considerable inhibition in the elevation of TNF-α compared to the rats intoxicated with acetaminophen. The electron microscopic observation showed considerable loss of structural integrity of the endoplasmic reticulum, lipid infiltration and ballooning of mitochondria in the acetaminophen-intoxicated rats, whereas the rats treated with S. polycystum showed considerable protection against acetaminophen-induced alterations in structural integrity. CONCLUSION: These observations suggest that the animals treated with S. polycystum extract may have the ability to protect the drug metabolizing enzyme system and mitochondrial functional status from free radical attack, thereby showing its defense mechanism in protecting hepatic cells from acetaminophen toxic metabolite N-acetyl-para-benzoquinone-imine (NAPQI).
基金funded by the Chinese Public Science and Technology Research Funds Projects of Ocean (No. 201305027)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 40930847, 41376119)+1 种基金Funds of China Southern Oceano-graphic Research Center (No. 14GZP71NF35)Funds of Provincial Key Laboratory of Food Microbiology and Enzyme Engineering (No. M20140910)
文摘Coccolithophorid is unicellular marine microalgae with a global distribution in temperate and sub-temperate oceanic regions and has the ability to produce 'the coccoliths'. It is considered to be the second most productive calcifying organism on earth and becoming an important factor in the global carbonate cycle. Emiliania huxleyi is one of the only two bloom-forming coccolithophores and becomes a species crucial to the study of global biogeochemical cycles and climate modeling. Coccolithoviruse is a recently discovered group of viruses infecting the marine coceolithophorid E. huxleyi. They are a major cause of coceolithophore bloom termination, and DMSP concentration is increasing in the process of viral lysis. Phylogenetic evidences support that some genes are functional both in E. huxleyi and its virus (EhV). Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of multiple functionally coupled enzymes occurs in E. huxleyi and its DNA virus EhV has been confirmed, which contributes to the diversification and adaptation of plankton in the oceans and also critically regulates virus-host infection by allowing viruses to control host metabolic pathways for their repli- cation. Therefore, it is of particular interest to understand this host-virus interaction. On this issue, we have made a minireview of coeeolithoviruses focusing on the basic characteristics, phylogenesis, horizontal gene transfer and the interaction between the host and its viruses, as well as its important role in global biogeochemical cycling.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.50904051)the Science and Technology Planning Project of Yantai,China(No.2010247)the Open Fund of Shandong Oriental Ocean Sci-Tech Co.,Ltd.(No.200803)
文摘Nanoparticles,or particles in size of 1-100 nm,are extensively used in the world in different applications.For instance,single-walled carbon nanotubes(SWCNTs) are commonly used in consumer products,such as biosensors,drug and vaccine delivery transporters,and novel biomaterials.Although nanoparticles do not cause safety concerns to consumers who use nanoparticle-containing products,these small particles are potentially harmful for workers who produce them in factories or in cases of discharge to aquatic ecosystems.SWCNTs do not have a natural analogue,so the effects on health of their disposal remain largely unknown.In this study,we evaluated the effects of SWCNTs on a population of the green microalga Chromochloris zofingiensis and the profile and production of pigments and fatty acids.The alga was incubated with SWCNTs for 6 days in 0(control),40,80,160,or 320 mg/L concentrations.SWCNTs showed both positive and negative effects on the growth of C.zofingiensis,with a biomass enhancement at low levels(40-160 mg/L) but inhibition at high levels(320 mg/L).By contrast,a decreased accumulation of fatty acids and pigments of C.zofingiensis was observed over the range of the tested concentrations.These results indicate that the markers on the inhibitive toxicity of SWCNTs are increasingly sensitive in the following order:biomass and fatty acids < primary carotenoids < chlorophylls < secondary carotenoids.C.zofingiensis is a suitable microalga for evaluating the ecotoxicological hazards of SWCNTs,especially in terms of pigmentation response.
文摘In this paper, we have investigated a model with three interacting species: non-toxic phy- toplankton, toxic phytoplankton and zooplankton with Holling type II and III functional responses over the space and time. The role of toxin producing phytoplankton (TPP) has been studied. We have presented the theoretical analysis of pattern formation in spatially distributed population with local diffusion. The paper highlights the hetero- geneity of HABs over space and time. The choice of parameter values and the functional response is important to study the effect of TPP, also it would depend more on the non- linearity of the system. With the help of numerical simulations, we have observed the spatial and spatiotemporal patterns for plankton system. This study demonstrates that TPP plays an important role in controlling the dynamics. We have observed that prey's anti-predator efforts promote predator switching. It has been found that high predation of TPP helps for the coexistence of toxic, non-toxic phytoplankton and zooplankton population.