Dr. Denslow's research interests include discovering biomarkers at both the mRNA and protein levels that relate to exposure of fish to environmental contaminants. In particular she is interested in defining molecular mechanisms of action of endocrine disrupting compounds that adversely affect reproduction. Her research covers both sex hormone receptor mediated and independent mechanisms. Favorite model systems include largemouth bass, fathead minnow, sheepshead minnow and zebrafish. Common research tools include microarrays, real time PCR, proteomics, tissue culture based assays, transfections and in vivo determination of reproductive endpoints. In addition,
Dr. Denslow has initiated research to understand the effect of nanomaterials on fish health. For this research, zebrafish microarray analysis is used as a tool to suggest global pathways that may be affected by exposure. These experiments are integrated with others looking at gill function, histopathology, nanomaterial uptake and nanomaterial characterization.