Organic contaminants found in local streams: Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry approach
SADE J. RHODES1*, JOMANI CHEESEMAN3, DAMIAN CANADY4, PORCHÈ L. SPENCE2, SAUNDRA DELAUDER5, TONYA M. GERALD-GOINS1*
* Corresponding authors
1. North Carolina Central University, Department of Chemistry, 3202 Mary M. Townes Science Building, North Carolina Central University Durham, NC 27707
2. North Carolina Central University, Department of Environmental, Earth and Geospatial Sciences, 2202 Mary M. Townes Science Complex, Durham, NC 27707
3. North Carolina Central University, Department of Biology, 2222 Mary M. Townes Science Building, North Carolina Central University Durham, NC 27707
4. North Carolina Central University, Department of Math and Physics, 3222 Mary M. Townes Science Complex, Durham, NC 27707
5. Delaware State University, School of Graduate Studies, Dover, DE 19901
KEYWORDS: organic containments; estrogen; gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy; freshwater; endocrine disruptor compounds; hormones
ABSTRACT: Monitoring the levels of organic contaminants (OCs) in local freshwater systems is essential for sustaining healthy ecosystems and communities. OCs found in freshwater systems are suspected of disrupting normal biological pathways and mimicking endocrine disruptor compounds. . The purpose of this study is to analyze OC samples from eight streams located in Durham, North Carolina. Preliminary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry results suggest that OCs are present in these streams. OCs detected includes phenol, 2, 4-bis (1,1-dimethylethyl), the antioxidant used for cosmetic formulations known as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and Astaxanthin. Several detected OCs contain phenolic and methyl substituent groups, which are essential for binding estrogen receptors. Findings suggest the need to further study the effects OC’s may have on gene expression.
INTRODUCTION
Clean water is valuable for sustaining healthy communities and ecosystems. Water is essential ... ...
