Three high performance liquid chromatographs (HPLCs), a Biological Oxygen Monitor (BOM), and a DNA filter elution system (spectrofluorometers and peristaltic pumps), recently acquired by the Chemistry Department at Eastern Michigan University, provide undergraduate students with opportunities to utilize cellular and biochemical technology to study the interactions between chemicals and living systems. HPLC is being used to study the formation of metabolites and identify molecular adducts resulting from exposure to toxic chemicals. The DNA filter elution system allows students to examine changes in DNA integrity introduced by exposure to chemical carcinogens and mutagens. The BOM is being used in the study of sub-cellular reactions to toxic chemicals. In particular, activities are directed toward the developing field of toxicology, with a focus on understanding basic biochemical and cellular phenomena as well as determining the hazards associated with exposure to toxic levels of chemicals.
