Grant: Engage Grants Program

NBBM is commercializing innovative research that focuses on utilizing nanotechnology as a magnetic chitosancomposite (MCC) that can be tailored to remove heavy metal ions from contaminated water. To proceed withthe development of this product, they require data on the potential environmental impact of applying thenanotechnology; specifically, data highlighting the toxicological impact with a representative aquatic model.The proposed studies will address these issues by examining the biocompatibility and metabolic effects ofchitosan-functionalized magnetic nanomaterials (MNMs) in a model marine and freshwater invertebrate and amodel freshwater fish. We will examine routine metabolic rate and perform standard OECD 96himmobilization and LC50 tests on the model invertebrates Artemia spp. (marine) and Daphnia magna(freshwater). For vertebrate testing, we will determine the effects on MNMs on routine and maximummetabolic rate in zebrafish. We will assess increasing concentrations of both pristine MNMs and MNMs whichhave been exposed to waters contaminated with metals. Following whole animal exposures, all tissue sampleswill be analyzed for biochemical indicators of stress and damage. Zebrafish gills will be preserved formorphological analysis by scanning electron microscopy in Mount Allison's Digital Microscopy Facility.This project will have significant economic benefits for Canada. Short term benefits will primarily be in theform of job creation in an important area of research and innovation. Long term benefits include facilitating thecommercialization of an ecologically responsible and lucrative environmental remediation product. Thisproject will provide the required information on biocompatibility and toxicity necessary for the continueddevelopment and deployment of this novel technology.