Project 33:
Exposure to DU is a significant concern for many populations in our country and in regions that were extensively involved with the Gulf War, such as the Middle East. Investigating the potential mitigating effects of the consumption of cruciferous vegetables on the oxidative stress induced by DU exposure could provide additional evidence that highlights the significance of food deserts on human health. The student will investigate whether or not sulforaphane can protect against DU-induced metabolic injury, using the laboratory test species zebrafish, and biochemical assays to measure metabolic output. Briefly, a resazurin-based assay, alamarBlue, will be used to measure the amounts of NADH and FADH in the zebrafish (proxy for mitochondrial activity). In the past we have observed diminished alamarBlue fluorescence in DU treated larva, and we want to test if sulforaphane treatment can rescue the effects.
The student is expected to work on their research project for approximately 5-10 hours per week over both semesters. The student is responsible for all zebrafish work, and associate biochemical approaches, and finally dissemination of their research findings in the form of a poster presentation. The student will present their findings at UGRADS, and if permissible at the Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC). Additionally, the mentor will use the data as preliminary findings for a planned NIH proposal submission. And ultimately, all data will be written into a peer reviewed manuscript.