Other Analyses

WET | Other Analyses | Research | Publications Algae Identification: The lab has the capability to identify freshwater algae in surface water samples to the genus level. Microcystin Toxin Detection via ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay): ELISA testing is used as a quantitative tool to detect the presence of microcystin residue, one class of toxin potentially released by blue-green algae in surface waters. This specific ELISA is based on combining an antibody which binds with microcystin or a microcystin enzyme conjugate. This sensitive enzyme reaction allows the detection of the toxin in very low levels in surface water and drinking water.

EROD (Ethoxresorufin-o-deethylase):

EROD is a test used to indicate exposure of fish and wildlife to contaminants. This in-vitro assay uses liver tissue to indicate the induction of Cytochrome P450 detoxifying enzymes. These enzymes are measured by fluorescent spectrophotometry. The lab has analyzed EROD activity in leopard frogs, channel catfish, tree swallows, yellow perch, snapping turtles and mudpuppies.

Microtox:

Microtox is an acute toxicity test using fluorescing marine bacteria to determine possible toxicity in a sample. Toxicity results in a reduction in light emitted by the bacteria. Samples can be analyzed and results known in less than two hours.

E-Screen and A-Screen Assays

The E-screen is a cell-culture based assay in which cells from a breast cancer cell line (MCF-7 cells) are exposed to specific compounds or environmental extracts. Because this cell line proliferates in response to estrogens, compounds that cause proliferation are considered estrogenic. The assay is very sensitive; detectable proliferation occurs in the picoMolar range of estradiol. The A-screen is an assay using MCF-7 cells that have been transfected with the androgen receptor. These cells will respond to androgens (such as testosterone) by inhibiting proliferation.

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Yeast Assay

The Yeast Assay is another tool used to assess potential impacts to the endocrine system. Yeast cells are transformed to contain human estrogen and androgen receptors. Chemicals that mimic or block human steroids can lead to infertility, endometriosis, and certain cancers such as breast, uterine, and prostate.

Reduced Volume Acute Screen:

This efficient monitoring tool is a downscaled version of the standard acute bioassay. It uses the same organisms, fathead minnow and Ceriodaphnia dubia. However, in this test they are required to be less than 24 hours old. It also requires a smaller sample volume of one-liter sample as compared to 20 liters in the standard acute test. There are no dilutions in RVAS. The test chambers are smaller and there are fewer renewals. This screen test has been used to evaluate a large number of effluents and receiving waters over a very short period of time.

Sanitizer:

The WSLH conducts sanitizer product testing for the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services. All sanitizer products used in Wisconsin must pass microbiological tests to be certified for use. The Sanitizer Request Form is available for downloading.

Sediment Bioassays:

These bioassays determine the acute (2-day) and chronic (10 day) effects of exposed organisms to sediment. Organisms used are Ceriodaphnia dubia, Daphnia magna, Hyalella azteca and Chironomus tentans.