Superfund Research Program
A Novel Mechanism of Ortho-PCB-induced Toxicity: Targeting Nuclear Receptors in Brain of Fish
Project Leader: John J. Stegeman (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)
Co-Investigators: Jared V. Goldstone (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution), Neelakanteswar Aluru (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution), Makoto Saito (Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)
Grant Number: P42ES007381
Funding Period: 2017-2021
Project-Specific Links
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News Items List
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Giant ocean viruses make unique, important enzymes
Environmental Factor - July 2019
A new NIEHS-funded study found that giant viruses, which have genomes larger than 300 kilobase pairs and protein shell diameters greater than 200 nanometers, have genes that encode for unique enzymes called cytochrome P450. Giant viruses are found in deep seas and oceans worldwide. In animals, P450 enzymes metabolize drugs and fatty acids, make steroid hormones, and defend against pollutants.