DSTR 17 |
| A fraction of the sediment deposited in New Orleans following hurricanes Katrina and Rita contains particles small enough to reach the alveolar spaces in the lungs. It is well-documented that inhalation of particles of this size can lead to lung injury by inducing oxidative damage. Several sediment samples collected by the USGS have been found to contain fine-grained pyrite, which is a iron-sulfide mineral that has been shown to generate oxidants and degrade nucleic acids. In this study, flood sediment samples deposited by Katrina and Rita were evaluated for their potential to spontaneously induce the formation of hydroxyl radicals and cause nucleic acid degradation in aqueous suspensions. Results show a correlation between RNA degradation rates and hydroxyl radical formation. While the results indicate that these particles are reactive and could possibly impact the health of humans, more extensive in vitro and in vivo tests are necessary to characterize the health risk. |
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Recovery from and Prevention of Natural Disasters
1:00 PM-5:05 PM, Tuesday, 12 September 2006 Moscone Center -- Room 300, Oral
Recovery From & Prevention of Natural Disasters |