Solar UVB-induced DNA damage and photoenzymatic DNA repair in antarctic zooplankton

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.94.4.1258
• Publication Date: 2002-07-26T14:31:39Z
• Authors: Kirk D. Malloy; Molly A. Holman; David Mitchell; H. William Detrich
• Keywords: Ozone Depletion

The detrimental effects of elevated intensities mid-UV radiation (UVB), a result stratospheric ozone depletion during the austral spring, on primary producers Antarctic marine ecosystem have been well documented. Here we report that natural populations zooplankton also sustain significant DNA damage [measured as cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs)] periods increased UVB flux. This is first direct evidence solar may in to organisms other than Antarctica. extent pelagic icefish eggs correlated with daily incident irradiance, reflecting difference between acquisition and repair CPDs. Patterns fish larvae did not correlate flux, possibly due different depth distributions and/or capacities for repair. Clearance CPDs by krill was mediated primarily photoenzymatic system. Although rates were large all species evaluated, they apparently inadequate prevent transient accumulation substantial CPD burdens. capacity highest those whose early life history stages occupy water column (austral spring) lowest are abundant winter. potential reduction fitness resulting from unknown, suggest UV reduce recruitment adversely affect trophic transfer productivity affecting heterotrophic producers.