Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Chesapeake Watershed CESU

archived

US Geological Survey (USGS) is offering a funding opportunity to a CESU partner to investigate immunomodulatory effects of contaminants on wildlife. Environmental pollutants are known to evoke immunomodulatory effects and changes in thyroid function that result in impaired resistance to infection and potential increases in disease outbreaks. Immunological effects of contaminants also have implications for animal fitness and reproduction due to the link between the immune and endocrine systems. Multiple legacy pollutants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), various pesticides, and flame retardants (polybrominated diphenyl ethers - PBDEs) have been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory effects, resulting in impaired resistance against infection and potentially leading to disease outbreaks in wildlife, including birds. However, little is known about the immunotoxicity of emerging chemicals of concern, particularly contemporary replacements for brominated flame retardants. Understanding whether birds in more highly contaminated areas are more susceptible to disease compared to those in seemingly less perturbed areas is vital for evaluating the spread of avian diseases and for understanding potential repercussions of sublethal exposures to emerging contaminants.

High