Frog genome mapping sheds new light on environmental contaminants

Typography

A University of Victoria molecular biologist has gained new insights into how environmental contaminants may disrupt thyroid systems. The discovery was made while assembling the genome of the North American bullfrog.

Caren Helbing’s findings could help explain the mechanisms of early development, as well as how environmental contaminants cause thyroidrelated diseases and malfunctions.

A University of Victoria molecular biologist has gained new insights into how environmental contaminants may disrupt thyroid systems. The discovery was made while assembling the genome of the North American bullfrog.

Caren Helbing’s findings could help explain the mechanisms of early development, as well as how environmental contaminants cause thyroidrelated diseases and malfunctions.

While bullfrogs might be best known as an invasive species in much of Canada, they are also vital animal models for scientific research.

“Understanding the mechanisms of gene expression in bullfrogs provides valuable insights, with applications in human health, conservation and developmental biology,” says Helbing.

 

Continue reading at University of Victoria.

Image via University of Victoria.