Exploring the role of developmental life stage on nutrient-toxicant interactions between methylmercury, selenium, and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids

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This research will investigate the ways and means by which selenium and omega-3 fatty acids protect against mercury’s harmful effects to the nervous and cardiovascular systems. To do so, we will explore the interactions between mercury, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids in the gastrointestinal tract (i.e. prior to absorption into the body) as well as at the sites of toxic action (i.e. following absorption into the bloodstream). Over the short term, the focus of this program of study will be on levels and types of mercury and nutrients within the traditional foods of First Nations (Dehcho Region, NT) and Inuit (Nunavik, QC).