FORURENS: Uptake, metabolism and effects of Deca-BDE, HCBD and TBBPA in terrestrial birds

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are used in a wide range of products to reduce flammability, and thus to decrease human and economical loss due to fire. At present, the production and use of the BFRs of most concern, the penta and octabrominated diphen yl ethers have been significantly reduced. However, other BFRs, such as deca-brominated diphenylether (Deca-BDE), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) are still in use. These have been shown to bioaccumulate in terrestrial birds , and there is concern about their toxicokinetics and their toxic effects in the terrestrial ecosystem. In the present study we will examine between-species differences in levels, uptake and metabolism (toxicokinetics) of deca-BDE (BDE-209), HBCD and TBBP A in altricial and precocial birds from terrestrial ecosystems, and if possible their food and predators. Levels will be examined in house sparrows, willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus) and/or rock ptarmigan (Lagopus mutus). In an experimental study, we wil l examine toxicokinetics and effects of deca-BDE, HBCD and TBBPA on development of the thyroid hormone system, the vitamin A and E and on formation of ROS and antioxidant defence (CAT and SOD) in precocial and altricial birds. Japanese quail (Coturnix jap onica) and/or hens (Gallus gallus) will be applied as model species for precocial birds, and the zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata castanotis) as a model for altricial species. The results from the study will generate results important for risk assessment of exposure to BFRs in terrestrial birds in Norwegian ecosystems