Research Focus and Directions
The main objective of research at LATI is to investigate the effects of emerging pollutants on aquatic organisms, with a particular emphasis on monitoring the chronic effects of individual substances and their mixtures. The research also involves introducing new model organisms for toxicity testing and for the biomonitoring of xenobiotic contamination in aquatic environments. Additionally, the laboratory develops and implements innovative treatment and technological procedures in fish farming, aiming at minimizing losses caused by various pathogens.
The basic and applied research conducted by laboratory members focuses on three main areas:
Monitoring the impact of aquaculture management on pond water quality
One of the key objectives of the research is to evaluate the extent to which fishery management practices affects water quality in fishponds and to determine whether simply reducing the intensity of fish farming can achieve the emission standards set by Government Regulation No. 229/2007, as amended.
Study of the influence of xenobiotics on aquatic organisms and in tests on cell lines
The research aims to evaluate the effects and mechanisms of action of xenobiotics — such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, endocrine disruptors, and nitrogen compounds (e.g., nitrites and cyanides) — on the physiology of aquatic organisms, including fish, crayfish, frogs, and mussels, as well as in in vitro tests using transgenic cell lines. In in vivo experiments on model organisms, selected hematological and biochemical parameters are measured, along with indicators of reactive toxicity (activities of detoxification and antioxidant enzymes). Gene expression analysis and histopathological examination of tissues are also conducted. In vitro tests focus on assessing the potential of chemical substances, their mixtures, and environmental extracts to induce specific toxicity or biological effects (on estrogen, androgen, and progesterone receptors, as well as thyroid hormone receptors and transthyretin binding), as well as nonspecific toxicity (reduction of cellular metabolic activity and cytotoxicity).
Prevention and therapy of fish diseases
The research focuses on the prevention and treatment of fish diseases, develop new therapeutic approaches in fish farming, and evaluate their effectiveness and potential side effects. Fish farmers are provided with treatment and husbandry protocols that minimize losses caused by various pathogens while supporting healthy growth and resistance in fish. These strategies support more efficient and sustainable aquaculture practices, reduce economic losses, and contribute to the protection of aquatic ecosystems.
