Immunological Assessment of Fish from the Gulf of Mexico: Effects of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Mississippi State University, Mississippi State MS

Investigators

Abstract

This Major Research Instrumentation award to Mississippi State University funds the acquisition of a fluorescence activated cell sorting system to enhance the scientific response to the Deep Horizons Oil Spill and its effects on coastal ecosystems. The overarching goal is to better understand how exposed fish populations will be affected by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Quantitative assessment of leukocyte cell populations in sampled fish will be used as an indicator of immune status, as will functional assays conducted with the sorted cells. Correlations of immune status assay results with environmental exposure data will help to establish both baseline values for fish health and direct assessment of the spill impacts. An expected result of this NSF-RAPID award is timely and critical information to inform policy and remediation efforts in response to the oil spill. Results from the studies and education efforts will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journal publications, though participation at regional and national scientific meetings, and through a range of public outreach efforts.