Investigation of mRNA expression changes associated with field exposure to DDTs in chickens from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to identify potential mRNA expression changes in chicken livers associated with environmental exposure to dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolites (DDTs). In particular, we focused on genes relating to the immune system and metabolism. We analyzed liver samples from free-ranging chickens in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, for contamination by DDTs. This area predominantly uses DDT in its malaria control program, and homes are sprayed annually with the pesticide. Genes relating to the immune system and metabolism were selected as potential genetic biomarkers that could be linked to higher contamination with DDTs. RT-qPCR analysis on 39 samples showed strong correlations between DDTs contamination and mRNA expression for the following genes: Av

SUBMITTER: Thompson LA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6181288 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature