Aqueous toxicity and food chain transfer of quantum dots™ in freshwater algae andCeriodaphnia dubia

• DOI: 10.1897/07-637.1
• Publication Date: 2008-05-21T20:46:03Z
• Authors: Jennifer L Bouldin; Taylor M Ingle; Anindita Sengupta; Regina Alexander; Robyn E Hannigan; Roger A Buchanan
• Keywords: Ceriodaphnia dubia; Ecotoxicity; Environmental toxicology

Abstract Innovative research and diagnostic techniques for biological testing have advanced during recent years because of the development semiconductor nanocrystals. Although these commercially available, fluorescent nanocrystals a protective organic coating, inner core contains cadmium selenium. Because metals potential detrimental environmental effects, concerns been raised over our lack understanding about fate products. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency test protocol fluorescence microscopy were used to determine effect quantum dots (QDs; Qdot ® 545 ITK ™ Carboxyl Quantum Dots [Fisher Scientific, Fisher part Q21391MP; Invitrogen Molecular Probes, Eugene, OR, USA]) using standard aquatic organisms. No lethality was measured following 48‐h exposure Ceriodaphnia dubia QD suspensions as high 110 ppb, but 96‐h median lethal concentration Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata at 37.1 ppb. Transfer QDs from dosed algae C. verified with microscopy. These results indicate that coatings present on provide protection metal toxicity laboratory exposures transfer intact may occur levels well above toxic threshold values, indicating higher trophic levels. Studies regarding effects nanoparticles can be incorporated into models predictive toxicology emerging contaminants.