MWH Labs (www.mwhlabs.com) Now Using Immunoassays to Test for Microcystin-LR

For Immediate Release: 3/4/2010

Cyanobacteria, are microorganisms of extreme concern to those dealing with recreational or drinking water supplies. These organisms, also more commonly known as blue-green algae have been known to create public health scares worldwide. Frequently found as the culprits of surface water algal blooms, up to seven genera and multiple species of cyanobacteria are known to produce toxins that can act as neurotoxins, hepatotoxins and skin irritants in both aquatic and terrestrial animals. Of most concern is the hepatotoxin microcystin-LR which has been detected in the majority of toxicity incidents worldwide. It is of such concern that the World Health Organization (WHO) has defined risk levels for recreational water and given a guideline of 1ppb for drinking water. It is one of 3 cyanotoxins listed in EPA’s CCL3 of priority contaminants for assessment of occurrence. Microcystin-LR is extremely stable in water. The laboratory holding time has been demonstrated to be at least 30 days.

With this in mind, MWH has developed an ELISA method to detect the microcystin-LR toxin. The test allows for the capture of the toxin by antibodies followed by an enzyme-substrate reaction which allows for the measurement of absorbance and concentration. With an assay range of 0.16 to 2.5 ppb, the test is able to determine toxin levels in samples in adherence with WHO guidelines.

With results available quickly if required, MWH recommends that this test be used for all source waters, surface waters and reservoirs prone to algal blooms to ensure the continued health and safety of the public.

MWH also offers LC-MS-MS analysis of microcystin-LR along with several other algal toxins in the event that clients want data on a group of toxins.

Ed Wilson, MWH Laboratory Director, said “This test helps to round out our abilities to provide comprehensive analysis of emerging contaminants for the drinking water industry.”

For further information about MWH capabilities for algal toxin analysis contact Polly Barrowman, Microbiology Department Manager (Polly.Barrowman@mwhglobal.com).

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About MWH Laboratories

MWH is a private, employee-owned consulting firm with over 6,000 employees worldwide. The firm provides engineering design and remediation, construction, procurement, program management, and technology solutions for the environmental, land, water, wastewater, energy and power markets of the Americas, Europe, Middle East, India, Asia and the Pacific Rim.