This report is the executive summary of the full report titled: Transcriptomic responses to an Alaskan oil spill over time reveal a dynamic multisystem involvement in exposed mussels (Mytilus trossulus).
Document Author: Eric Litman
Transcriptomic responses to an Alaskan oil spill over time reveal a dynamic multisystem involvement in exposed mussels (Mytilus trossulus)
Whole tissues analyzed for the full suite of forensic oil hydrocarbons revealed weathering patterns and purging processes. The transcriptome of adductor muscle tissue showed multi-pathway effects and timing in gene activities related to the detoxification and recovery processes.
In multiple pathways, gene activities did not return to reference-site levels, suggesting that recovery from hydrocarbons was not complete by the final sampling. This may have been due to residual sheening prolonging recovery.
Genes that could potentially distinguish between ANS crude oil and harbor contaminants (pyrogenics and diesel) were identified with the goal of developing more robust monitoring tools.
Full Report: Mussel Chemistry and Transcriptomic Response after a Minor Alaskan Oil Spill
When a mussel is exposed to a chemical irritant such as crude oil, certain genes respond, triggering mRNA to carry a message to the mussel’s cells. That message tells the cells how to deal with the irritant. Every irritant triggers a different pattern of genes. The scientists looked for the genetic and chemical response patterns unique to crude oil.
Their analysis showed that both oil concentrations and gene response spiked then decreased with time, however the genetic response peaked at a later time.
This document is the full report. See also: Executive Summary.
Executive Summary: Mussel Oiling and Genetic Response to the April 2020 Valdez Marine Terminal Spill
When a mussel is exposed to a chemical irritant such as crude oil, certain genes respond, triggering mRNA to carry a message to the mussel’s cells. That message tells the cells how to deal with the irritant. Every irritant triggers a different pattern of genes. The scientists looked for the genetic and chemical response patterns unique to crude oil.
Their analysis showed that both oil concentrations and gene response spiked then decreased with time, however the genetic response peaked at a later time.
This document is the executive summary. See also: Full report.