Toxin-producing algal blooms spread across southern Florida’s freshwater and saltwater ecosystems during the summer of 2018. Such algal blooms can severely impact the health of humans and wildlife due to bacteria within the algae that release toxic peptides, such as microcystins, into the waterways.

Microcystin exposure can lead to symptoms such as nausea, allergic reactions, and even tumor progression. FAU’s Adam Schaefer analyzed urine samples from south Floridians and detected low-dose exposures to microcystins. “This research is a critical step in developing and interpreting clinical diagnostic tests for harmful algal bloom exposure around the world,” says Schaefer.

• Matthew Ajemian