There is growing concern on the possible detrimental effects of exposure to xenobiotic compounds that are capable of modulating or disrupting the endocrine system. This concern for endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDC) is directed at both wildlife and humans. This research project uses an ecotoxicological approach and aims at examining the fundamental aspects of endocrine disruption in the estuarine invertebrate Neomysis integer exposed to abiotic and toxic stress by means of selected biomarkers. Both laboratory studies and field studies in de Westerschelde estuary will be used.

My current Ph.D. work is situated in the research field of endocrine disruption in the marine/estuarine environment and looks at the following research needs : (1) the incidence and quantification of endocrine disruption in aquatic invertebrates, (2) acquiring fundamental knowledge of the mechanisms of endocrine disruption in invertebrate species, (3) understanding the influence of abiotic stress on the effects of endocrine disruptors in the estuarine/marine environment, (4) the developmentof toxicological regulatory test guidelines and testing strategies for EDCs in invertebrate species. Both field studies (sampling, in situ exposure) in the Westerscheldt estuary and laboratory studies are used. A complementary approach using both invivo and in vitro endpoints (steroid metabolism, vitellogenin, energy metabolism) are being explored.