UToledo hones in on harmful algal blooms [Video]

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – A new study aims to help us better understand algal blooms in Lake Erie. The study is led by University of Toledo professors and students.

Algal blooms plague our local Great Lake, risking the health of not just those who use it for recreation but the entire surrounding ecosystem.

Dr. Dragan Isaialovic, a chemistry and biochemistry professor at the University of Toledo said their collaboration with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory allows them to focus on one specific type of bacteria.

“How microbiome, so the other types of bacteria, could influence the growth of the microcystic aeruginosa,” Dr. Isaialovic said.

Due to the toxins emitted during the blooms, algal blooms pose a threat to the aquatic life in Lake Erie and us.

“Can lead to cell death and animal death and human death as well. so it’s important to avoid contact with microcystins, both ingestion and to …