A new method promises to detect toxic algal blooms in freshwater before they turn dangerous – by distinguishing the protein signatures of harmful blue-green algae directly from lake samples.
Developed by researchers at the University of Birmingham, the technique identifies subtle differences in the blue-light-harvesting proteins (phycocyanins) of cyanobacterial species, allowing for early and species-level detection of harmful algae. The approach also enables simultaneous screening for cyanotoxins – compounds linked to liver and neurological damage – offering a significant advance over existing microscopic and genetic tools.
“Our approach is quick and really sensitive, so it can be used to monitor how all the cyanobacteria are competing for growth within lake water prior to the domination of a single toxic strain emerging,” said Jaspreet Sound, first author of the study, in the team’s press release.
Applying top-down proteomics and high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry to water samples from lakes across the UK, the researchers analyzed intact phycocyanin subunits – proteins conserved within cyanobacteria, yet variable enough to allow strain discrimination. This approach enabled both taxonomic identification and early detection of toxin-producing species, without the need for culture or amplification steps.
“This technique advances existing approaches and will not only help improve water quality for human use, but also plays a role in understanding how to protect critical wetland environments,” commented co-author Tim Overton.
With climate change expected to increase the frequency and complexity of harmful algal blooms, the need for early detection is growing. “The ability to identify bloom composition and toxin presence will help us make data-driven decisions about water use restrictions, treatment, and public health advisories,” said senior author Aneika Leney.
The authors note that blooms in some UK lakes already exceed WHO cyanotoxin thresholds for drinking water, posing risks to wildlife, pets, and people. Their method, which aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, could help safeguard public health and biodiversity by enabling rapid environmental monitoring at the molecular level.
Newsletters
Receive the latest analytical science news, personalities, education, and career development – weekly to your inbox.
