Identification of protein biomarkers in epidermal mucus of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) as a consequence of angling stress

Dort, H. J. (2018). Identification of protein biomarkers in epidermal mucus of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) as a consequence of angling stress. https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2706

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Title

Identification of protein biomarkers in epidermal mucus of striped bass (Morone saxatilis) as a consequence of angling stress

Author
Dort, Hillary J.
Call Number

LE3 .A278 2018

Date

2018

Supervisor

Easy, Russell
Avery, Trevor

Degree Grantor

Acadia University

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Degree Level

Honours

Discipline

Biology

Affiliation

Biology

Abstract

Striped Bass (Morone saxatilis) are native to the Atlantic coast of North America and are valued for their ecological, economic and cultural significance. Anthropogenic stressors such as handling and angling, cause physiological and behavioral changes that may detrimentally shift the balance between health and disease in Striped Bass populations. Proteomic techniques were used to identify and characterize novel protein biomarkers in Striped Bass epidermal mucus and to investigate changes in protein profiles caused by angling. Methods included isolating proteins of interest, and quantifying and exploring how specific protein biomarkers may play a role in determining fish health. Data obtained from 1D SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry has identified putative protein biomarkers in Striped Bass epidermal mucus. Proteolytic activity was characterized in the mucus using zymography, providing information on the class of proteases activated during stress-related events. In addition, changes in protein profiles were correlated with known stress indicators and previously identified biomarkers. By identifying biomarkers of stress in epidermal mucus samples this study has developed a novel and non-invasive method for measuring stress in Striped Bass, which may contribute to a better understanding of the overall effects of angling stress on fish in general. It is anticipated by recognizing the potential pitfalls in the handling and treatment of Striped Bass that this study may improve current conservation decisions and regulations to maintain healthy populations of Striped Bass, as well as contributing to the limited scientific literature regarding the effects of stress on Striped Bass.

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The author retains copyright in this thesis. Any substantial copying or any other actions that exceed fair dealing or other exceptions in the Copyright Act require the permission of the author.

Permanent Link

https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:2706

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