Effect of environmental pollutants on the chemiluminescence of hemocytes from the American oyster Crassostrea virginica

Abstract

An assay measuring the chemiluminescent response of hemocytes from the oyster Crassostrea virginica was used to assess the effects of environmental pollutants on phagocytosis. In vivo and in vitro effects of heavy metals (copper, cadmimum, zinc, and aluminum), pesticides (dieldrin and chlordane), and organic compounds (naphthalene and 2,4-dinitrophenol) on the chemiluminescent response of stimulated oyster hemocytes were tested. In most cases, exposure to a high pollutant concentration resulted in a decreased chemiluminescent response. After in vivo treatment, the response of the hemocytes depended on the duration of exposure to the pollutant and pollutant concentration. Instances of both acclimation and cumulative toxicity of pollutants were observed.