Scientists discover genetic basis for how harmful algae blooms become toxic

Scientists discover genetic basis for how harmful algae blooms become toxic

Scientists have uncovered the genetic basis for the production of domoic acid, a potent neurotoxin produced by certain harmful algae blooms.

In a new study appearing in this week's issue of the journal Science, researchers identified a cluster of genes related to the production of domoic acid in microscopic plants, or phytoplankton, called Pseudo-nitzschia.

The researchers, whose work is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), found that the genes ...

More at https://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=296536&WT.mc_id=USNSF_51&WT.mc_ev=click

This is an NSF News item.

Published September 27, 2018 at 11:30PM