Concern over exposure risks of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has called for more research into the toxicity of common PAHs. Exposure to benzo(a)pyrene (BAP) and benzo(e)pyrene (BEP) has been related to the phosphorylation of translation initiation factor eIF2a, which often leads to stress granule (SG) formation. Using drug exposure assays and western blotting, we examined the relationship between PAHs and the formation of SGs, and the associated degree of phosphorylated eIF2a in human cells following treatment with BAP and BEP. We find that PAHs do not cause SG formation or phosphorylation of eIF2a relative to a known control. This research calls for more investigation into the toxicity of PAHs that examines the effects of exposure on other stress-related pathways.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Loosigian, Victoria
• Bell, Aimee Elizabeth
• Grossi, Amanda C.

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-051120-155642

Advisor

• Roberts, Louis Anthony
• Farny, Natalie

Year

• 2020

Date created

• 2020-05-11

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright