Cylindrospermopsin

Rapid CDIA^TM Cylindrospermopsin kits are are intended for the detection of Cylindrospermopsin in water.

Most of the world's population relies on surface freshwaters as its primary source for drinking water. The drinking water industry is constantly challenged with surface water contaminants that must be removed to protect human health. Toxic cyanobacterial blooms are an emerging issue worldwide due to increased source water nutrient pollution caused by eutrophication. Cylindrospermopsin is a toxin produced by several different types of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) and has been found in fresh water throughout the world. Certain strains of Cylindrospermopsis raciborski (found in Australia, Hungary, and the United States), Umezakia natans (found in Japan), and Aphanizomenon ovalisporum (found in Australia and Israel) have been found to produce Cylindrospermopsin. The production of Cylindrospermopsin seems to be strain specific rather than species specific.
Acute poisoning of humans and animals constitutes the most obvious problem from toxic cyanobacterial blooms, and in several cases has led to death. Human and animal exposure to these toxins can occur through the ingestion of contaminated water, through drinking or during recreational activities in which water is swallowed, or food, such as fish. Dermal contact with Cylindrospermopsin may occur during showering or bathing, or during recreational activities such as swimming or boating. These toxins mediate their toxicity by inhibiting liver function and are potent inhibitors of protein synthesis and glutathione, leading to cell death.
To protect against adverse health effects, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established health advisories for Cylindrospermopsin in drinking water: (1) For children pre-school age and younger (less than six years old), 0.7 µg/L (ppb). (2) For school-age children and adults, 3.0 µg/L (ppb).