Cellular Environmental Toxicology and NeuroPhysiology Laboratory

Focus

The Cellular Environmental Toxicology and Neurophysiology Laboratory (CETNEP) is tasked with conducting research to better understand toxicological insult to cells and microgravity-induced neurophysiological changes. For this research, the rotating wall vessel (RWV) is used.

Activities

Heavy Metal Contamination in Bowhead Whale Tissue

One CETNEP project now underway with other universities and research institutions is the study of heavy metal contamination in cetaceans, specifically the Bowhead whale. The ability to study three-dimensional cetacean tissue in a closed environment may lead to better understanding of heavy metal contamination in mammals; a majority of prior contamination studies have been performed in an open environment. Equally important, limited studies performed to date suggest that cetaceans--many of which are exposed to heavy metals through global pollution or through ingesting contaminated fish--appear to have immune function that ameliorates the effects of contamination (Guise et al, 1995).

In the 8-year history of the project, two important results have emerged:

• A correlation between progressive fibrosis of the kidneys and heavy metal contamination in Bowhead whales.
• The giant glycoprotein receptor, cubulin, mediates cadmium toxicity in the kidneys to some unspecified level. Species with this kidney receptor are 1000 times more likely to have a toxic accumulation of cadmium in the kidneys than species lacking it. Investigators theorize that selective blocking of this receptor with protective agents will result in the excretion of cadmium through urine. Damage to kidneys and ultimately to the organism's physiology may be averted.

Time-Varying Electromagnetic Fields (TVEMF)

Another CETNEP project looks at the influence of TVEMF on gene expression and cellular regeneration in human neural progenitor and other mammalian cells.  Current work includes expanding the types of mammalian cells studied.  Preliminary results show a down-regulation of regulatory genes and an up-regulation of growth facilitating genes.  Cellular metabolism seems to be increased by 15 to 20% and RNA production doubled.  Learn more about TVEMF in the Advanced Technology section.

Benefits

Some of CETNP's most exciting work stems from the recent development of three-dimensional models to investigate microbial infectivity. CETNEP has been chosen to provide three-dimensional models for the study of viral infectivity, in conjunction with the University of Texas Medical Branch and their application to become the first Regional Center of Excellence for Biodefense.

Personnel

Thomas J. Goodwin, PhD