"Every contaminant leaves a mark: ecotoxicology deciphers it to protect environments, biodiversity, and human health."
The environment is a living archive of our industrial and agricultural history: substances produced, used, and dispersed by humans for decades accumulate in sediments, soils, water, and organisms. Among these, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane), PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), bisphenols (e.g., BPA), and anticoagulant rodenticides (e.g., brodifacoum) are organic contaminants capable of persisting in the environment, traveling long distances, accumulating in tissues, and threatening the health of biodiversity and humans. Pollution, climate change, and other human pressures are compromising the adaptability and resilience of terrestrial and marine ecosystems
The Magiamare Siena research group (https://magiamaresiena.unisi.it/) has been studying the impact of historical and emerging contaminants on marine and terrestrial biodiversity for over thirty years, adopting a One Health approach that integrates the health of the environment, biodiversity, and humans. Through non-destructive methodologies and chemical, biological, and histopathological analyses, they identify the thresholds beyond which exposure causes irreversible effects on organisms and populations
The research activities are developed along several complementary lines, with an integrated approach that combines laboratory analysis, field monitoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration:
- Biomarkers and Wildlife Health
In collaboration with other research groups, we participate in the development and application of innovative biomarkers to assess the ecotoxicological status and the function of key physiological systems (immune, endocrine, nervous, detoxification) in wildlife. The analyses are based on non-destructive samples, such as skin biopsies, feathers, blood, unhatched eggs, and excreta, and are integrated with studies of cell cultures and in vitro tests, allowing us to explore the response mechanisms to pollutants at multiple biological levels.
- Linking Contamination and Pathologies
In close collaboration with veterinarians and pathologists, we analyze the contaminant load in relation to specific causes of death and relevant pathological conditions, with particular attention to emerging and recurrent infectious diseases, such as Morbillivirus in cetaceans. This approach allows us to identify potential interactions between chemical stress and susceptibility to pathologies.
- In Vitro Tests and Predictive Models
We use cell cultures of target species (e.g., cetacean fibroblasts) to evaluate toxicological responses to environmental and natural contaminants, both single and in mixtures. The results are integrated into statistical and theoretical models to predict effects on organisms and populations and to define hazard threshold values useful for management and conservation.
- Integrated Ecosystem Monitoring
We conduct surveys of marine habitats (such as Posidonia oceanica meadows, protected marine areas, and transition zones) and terrestrial habitats (wild fruits, wildlife), evaluating contamination levels and associated risk, even in contexts influenced by industrial, agricultural, and geothermal activities.
- Management Applications and Conservation
The data obtained are used to guide conservation strategies, management plans for protected areas, and risk mitigation policies, contributing to a more sustainable management of natural resources.