Grant: Engage Grants Program

Environmental pollutants that affect reproduction are one of the contributing factors to the declining populations of amphibians worldwide. As contaminants can have negative effects on amphibian reproduction, a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of action of environmental chemicals is critical to help discover their impacts in vertebrates. Environmental Proteomics NB Inc. is particularly interested in developing antibodies to assess aquatic reproductive disruption and wish to expand into amphibian species. However, Environmental Proteomics NB Inc. lacks the expertise to develop tools for this emerging market. Dr. Langlois' studies have suggested four important enzymes involved in the production of the potent androgen dihydrotestosterone in amphibians (i.e, steroid 5-alpha reductase type 1, steroid 5-alpha reductase type 2, steroid 5-alpha reductase type 3, and steroid 5-beta reductase) that would be novel targets of endocrine disrupting chemicals. Therefore, collaborating with Dr. Langlois' group would expand Environmental Proteomics NB Inc.'s portfolio to allow the development of new molecular markers for endocrine disruption in amphibians, which will provide a tremendous opportunity for Environmental Proteomics NB Inc. to occupy a new commercial speciality. Environmental Proteomics NB Inc. is a Canadian owned for profit company that develops tools for the environmental science niche. Continuing to expand the antibody catalogue while moving into other areas of environmental science research such as these biomarker diagnostics will help ensure the longterm sustainability of this small company.