Jill A. Jenkins
The overall goal of my research is to provide scientific information that contributes to decision-making on the management of the Nation's natural resources. With a background in comparative immunology as well as microbial virulence mechanisms and host responses, my primary research focus at the National Wetlands Research Center, Biological Resources Division, U.S. Geological Survey is on cellular and molecular responses of animal cells to environmental stressors. Animal models include teleosts, invertebrates, amphibians, and birds, whereas stressors include contaminants, bacteria, and poor water quality. My studies emphasize the development of bioindicator assays, often using flow cytometry with blood, hemocyte, or sperm cells, to be used in conjunction with established USGS-approved methods.
The exposure of aquatic animals to environmental stressors may reduce reproductive success. Sensitive bioindicators can be used to link reproductive disturbances with environmental chemicals that mimic natural hormones. Responses used in bioindicator development include cell viability and mitochondrial function status, sperm chromatin structure, spleen macrophage aggregate status, immune cell status, and ploidy changes. Other studies include characterization of crayfish hemocyte responses to bacterial pathogens, production of triploid crappie for sportfish use, and use of flow cytometry in the establishmentan oyster cell line for in vitro genetics and pathogenesis studies.
My studies are primarily laboratory-oriented, yet have field components. Sampling sites include Lake Mead, Nevada; Sherburne Wildlife Management Area in the Atchafalaya River Basin, Louisiana; Davis Pond, south of New Orleans LA; Calcasieu Parish, LA. Controlled studies are run in the laboratory, and crayfish, koi carp, and largemouth bass are maintained in a wetlab.
Studies employ creativity based on sound scientific principles. Links to professional societies with which I am involved include: Animal Health Division of the American Society for Microbiology; Fish Health Section of the American Fisheries Society; and the Conference of Research Workers in Animal Diseases.