Jennifer Vasquez

Use of Magnesium to Prevent Lead Poisoning in Zebra Fish: A Model for Prevention in Humans

Lead poisoning and magnesium actions were tested on zebra fish (Danio rerio) fertilization from October 2006- April 2007. The fish were exposed to 100 μg/dl of lead and 24.6 mg/dl of magnesium. Zebra fish eggs were collected daily and left to hatch in order to see the effects of lead on fecundity and hatchability. Lead seems to have an effect on zebra fish reproduction. Magnesium seems to have a slight effect on fecundity as well, but it also looks as if it competes against lead when both treatments are given to the fish. When compared to the control tank: zebra fish exposed to lead laid 80% less eggs, those exposed to magnesium laid 21% less eggs, and those exposed to both lead and magnesium laid 47% less eggs. Neither treatment seems to have an effect on egg hatchability. Potential reasons as to why this might be the case are explored.