1 Genotoxicity Testing in Sediments: Progress in Developing a Transgenic Polychaete Model

marine polychaete worm for testing genotoxicity of sediments. In keeping with the intent of previous communications, this technical note contains protocols for laboratory procedures to aid other researchers who may be similarly engaged in the development of transgenic invertebrate models for research or testing purposes. Protocols are provided for cryopreservation of polychaete sperm and for transgene insertion using electroporation combined with osmotic shock. BACKGROUND: The reasons for the development of this model are discussed in detail in Technical Note EEDP-01-43 (Inouye, McFarland, and Perkins 1999). Briefly, this work was undertaken in order to address the lack of an appropriate genotoxicity screening assay for dredged sediments. Many of the contaminants (metals as well as organics) commonly encountered in dredged sediments are genotoxic, i.e., capable of damaging genetic material. Open-water disposal of genotoxicants is expressly prohibited in public law. Specifically, Section 103 of the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 (MPRSA) at § 227.6 (a) (5) prohibits “known carcinogens, mutagens, or teratogens or materials suspected to be carcinogens, mutagens, or teratogens by responsible scientific opinion, ” “as other than trace contaminants ” if there is a reason to believe such chemicals are present. While the language is less specific in sections of the Clea