Release of Intracellular Cyanotoxins During Oxidation of Naturally Occurring and Lab-Cultured Cyanobacteria

This project provides guidance to utilities regarding the release of intracellular cyanotoxins during oxidation of naturally occurring and lab-cultured cyanobacteria. This project:

• Summarizes the state-of-the-science regarding intracellular cyanotoxin release during oxidation processes
• Provides guidance regarding which lysing methods are optimal for measuring total cyanotoxin concentrations
• Provides guidance regarding the oxidant exposure conditions resulting in complete release of intracellular cyanotoxins
• Evaluates short term oxidant exposures to further understanding the mechanism of release (oxidative stress response or physical release through a compromised cell membrane)
• Simulates delayed release of intracellular cyanotoxins on a subsequent filter surface
• Highlights differences between the oxidation of laboratory cultured cells and naturally occurring cells
• Proposes conceptual models for cell lysis and cyanotoxin release for different oxidants

Tailored Collaboration Partner: Southern Nevada Water Authority. Published in 2019.