Multiplex fluorimetric assays for monitoring algal toxins

Abstract

Most known algal toxins act on ion channels either directly or indirectly, resulting in a change in intracellular ion concentrations when administered to targeted cells. The present project developed the working conditions for the use of fluorescent dyes in monitoring changes in membrane potential, intracellular calcium, and intracellular sodium levels in mammalian cell lines. Using these conditions, we were able to demonstrate specific changes in fluorescent signals in response to several purified toxins. We were also able to generate algal extracts which, when administered to the developed fluorimetric assays, were able to elicit different pattern of changes in membrane potential, intracellular calcium, and intracellular sodium levels. The differential pattern of responses induced by the different algal toxins in the three fluorimetric assays serve as a proof of concept for the use of multiplex fluorimetric assays in the laboratory monitoring of algal toxins.