5th RTD Framework Programme
The main goal of this research project is to introduce novel cellular biosensors (marine invertebrate cell cultures) and molecular biosensor techniques for the estimate of the health state of ecologically and/or commercially important marine invertebrate
The main goal of this research project is to introduce novel cellular biosensors (marine invertebrate cell cultures) and molecular biosensor techniques for the estimate of the health state of ecologically and/or commercially important marine invertebrates at their natural habitats (sponges and sea urchins) or held in aquaculture (bivalves). Commercializable products (biosensor chips for environmental monitoring) will be developed and distributed throughout the world.
In the frame of the project:
- Three different molecular biosensors for monitoring the effects of solar UV-B radiation and of xenobiotics, or their combinations will be developed: a) immunosensor, b) DNA affinity biosensor, and c) DNA damage sensor.
- The cellular and molecular biosensors will be validated in laboratory experiments and in field experiments.
- Novel cell and tissue culture techniques for marine invertebrates (sponge, bivalves, and sea urchin) will be tested for their applicability as cellular biosensors in marine environmental research.
- These cellular biosensors will be applied for studying the vulnerability and health status of commercially important marine invertebrates (scallop and oyster) and ecologically important marine invertebrates (sponge and sea urchin) exposed to UV-B radiation and to anthropogenic or natural xenobiotics, and their combinations (laboratory experiments and field studies).
- The combinatory effects of pollution and UV exposure on scallop, oyster, and sea urchin embryo development will be studied.
The techniques to be introduced (marine invertebrate cell cultures and biosensor technology) will increase the competitive capacity of the EU and promote the sustainable growth of the marine invertebrate industry in Europe.