Investigating immune responses to Harmful Algal Bloom cyanotoxins in protection of human health and the environment

The objective of the study is to determine if available normal 3D human skin tissue culture system can be used to detect and quantify the effects of exposure to cyanobacteria in a water sample like what might be observed in skin rashes or irritations of swimmers exposed to lake waters containing cyanobacteria. Information is needed in proper management, prevention of exposure especially to vulnerable populations (young, asthmatic, immunosuppressed and especially those living near water bodies prone to HCBs and risk assessment. The results studies can be used to characterize the toxicological and immunological properties of cyanobacteria and their metabolites. The information will help interpret the results and provide a linkage between cyanobacteria, toxins, immunological response and overall health effects.

Impact/Purpose

Little is known about immunological responses to harmful algal bloom (HABs) exposure. This study aims to elucidate the mechanisms by which HABs affect human health using a 3D human skin cell in vitro culture exposed to several cyanotoxins. We observed the expression of several cytokines/chemokines and cell receptors involved in regulation of the inflammatory process in endothelial and epithelial cells. These proteins also play a role in the recruitment of neutrophils to the site of inflammation and in recruiting immune cells to the dermal skin layer that may contribute to the rashes or skin irritation commonly reported by patients exposed to HABs. These findings could lead to a better understand of human exposure to cyanotoxins and more appropriate and effective treatment modalities for patients who exhibit rashes or skin irritations after being exposed to these blooms. Program and regional partners, local communities and the general public could all benefit from and use this information.

Citation

Robillard, M., A. DelaCruz, S. Augustine, AND A. Dufour. Investigating immune responses to Harmful Algal Bloom cyanotoxins in protection of human health and the environment. 2022 Virtual ROCS-Net Event, NA, OH, April 04 - 06, 2022.