Research Interests

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My laboratory research projects examine molecular physiology associated with metals and organic molecules in aquatic environments.

Topics of current interest in the lab include: 

* Studies of the reproductive physiology of squirrelfish (Holocentrus adscensionis) have shown that, during reproductively active periods, female squirrelfish preferentially increase their uptake of Zn, store it in the liver, and ultimately send it to the ovary where it is incorporated into the oocyte. Such a role for Zn utilization suggests an adaptive advantage for the squirrelfish embryo, as evidenced by the finding that oocyte Zn levels are positively correlated with egg viability. As the increase in Zn accumulation in female squirrelfish is closely correlated to major events during the reproductive cycle, it is possible that differential Zn-transporter expression occurs at critical points in the cycle and is under the control of some female-specific reproductive factor such as estradiol.

* Atrazine is an herbicide used in no-till farming of crops such as corn and soybeans, and is frequently found in surface water such as within the Ohio River watershed. While atrazine has been shown to have adverse effects on non-target species, such as feminization of male Xenopus, various studies with fish species have provided conflicting evidence regarding the potential for atrazine to elicit endocrine disruption. Furthermore, there is a lack of information examining the potential impact of commercially available atrazine products, especially considering the additional ingredients often included in these formulations.

Relevant Publications

Thompson ED, Hogstrand C, Glover CN. (2018) From sea squirts to squirrelfish: facultative trace element hyperaccumulation in animals. Metallomics 10, 777-793.

Thompson ED, Bowling BV, Markle RE. (2017) Predicting Student Success in a Major’s Introductory Biology Course via Logistic Regression Analysis of Scientific Reasoning Ability and Mathematics Scores.   Research in Science Education, doi.org/10.1007/s11165-016-9563-5.

Thompson ED, Mayer GD, Glover CN, Capo T, Walsh PJ, HogstrandC (2012) Zinc Hyperaccumulation in Squirrelfish (Holocentrus adscenscionis) and Its Role in Embryo Viability.  PLoS ONE 7(10): e46127, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0046127.

Thompson ED, Whitson M, Bowling BV, Naczi R (2011) Engaging Students in Natural Variation in the Introductory Biology Laboratory via a Statistics-Based Inquiry Approach. The American Biology Teacher 73, 100-104.

Thompson ED, Burwinkel KE*, Chava AK, Notch EG, Mayer GD (2010) Activity of Phase I and II Enzymes of the Benzo[a]pyrene Transformation Pathway in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Following Waterborne Exposure to Arsenite. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology C 152, 371–378.

Glover CN, Balesaria S, Mayer GD, Thompson ED, Walsh PJ, Hogstrand C (2003) Intestinal zinc uptake in the marine teleosts, squirrelfish (Holocentrus adscensionis) and Gulf toadfish (Opsanus beta). Physiological Biochemistry and Zoology 76, 321-30.

Thompson ED, Mayer GD, Balesaria S, Glover CN, Walsh PJ, Hogstrand C (2003) Characterization of the yearly reproductive cycle in the female squirrelfish.  Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology A 134, 819-828.

Thompson ED, Mayer GD, Walsh PJ, Hogstrand C (2002) Sexual maturation and reproductive zinc physiology in the female squirrelfish.  Journal of Experimental Biology 205, 3367-3376.

Thompson ED, Olsson P-E, Mayer GD, Haux C, Walsh PJ, Burge E*, Hogstrand C (2001) Effects of 17b-estradiol on levels and distribution of metallothionein and zinc in squirrelfish.  American Journal of Physiology- Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology. 280, R527-R535.