Health-benefit understanding of mercury-selenium interactions from fish to human

Project Information

MERFISH

Grant agreement ID: 101007962

DOI

10.3030/101007962

Project closed

EC signature date 16 December 2020

Start date 1 February 2021

End date 31 January 2026

Funded under

• EXCELLENT SCIENCE - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Total cost

€ 395 600,00

EU contribution

€ 289 800,00

Coordinated by

CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS
France

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - MERFISH (Health-benefit understanding of mercury-selenium interactions from fish to human)

Reporting period: 2021-02-01 to 2024-01-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

In the MERFISH project, international experts from various research fields from industry and academia from EU, Brazil and Mauritius,are joining forces to tackle the pressing issue of mercury (Hg) pollution in our environment and its impact on human health. Mercury, labeled as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern by the World Health Organization, poses serious risks, especially through fish consumption. Despite this, our understanding of mercury's pathways in nature remains limited. MERFISH aims to shed light on these pathways, focusing on the fate from fish to humans and the role of selenium (Se) in detoxification. By bringing together experts in fish nutrition, analytical chemistry, environmental science, and more, the project seeks to develop new guidelines for aquaculture practices to minimize mercury contamination in fish and ensure the proper assimilation of selenium, which acts as a counterbalance to mercury toxicity. MERFISH will contribute to setting nutritional strategies for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development. By understanding the dynamics of mercury and selenium in commonly consumed fish species from various regions, including Europe, the Arctic, Africa, and the Amazon, the project aims to guide policymakers in making informed decisions about food safety and commercial fisheries. Ultimately, MERFISH represents a collaborative effort to address environmental, health, socioeconomic, and food safety challenges associated with mercury pollution. Through its interdisciplinary approach and pioneering research, the project aims to build a lasting network of experts dedicated to tackling the global issue of mercury contamination.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

The MERFISH project has made significant progress in advancing its objectives, thanks to the multidisciplinary approach and networking activities between academic and non-academic partners focused on fish nutrition and human health related to the global mercury issue.This includes efforts to establish more realistic scenarios for estimating human health risks and benefits, as well as capturing the economic impacts on commercial fisheries. The project has resulted in several collaborative publications across diverse disciplines, showcasing successful joint efforts. Additionally, numerous doctoral theses have been presented, and new collaborations have been forged to ensure the project's long-term success. Knowledge transfer between institutions has been facilitated through completed secondments, while communication and dissemination efforts have effectively engaged civil society, stakeholders, and policymakers. Special attention has been given to raising awareness among the Amazonian population about environmental protection. The project has also prioritized the visibility of women in science through their active participation in dissemination activities. For example, initiatives in schools aimed to increase the visibility of women in science and raise awareness among students about environmental protection issues. For the general population, the project has actively participated in events such as the European Researchers' Night and museum interventions on Heritage Day to bring scientific activity closer to the arts..

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The MERFISH project has made significant strides in advancing the understanding of the fate of dietary mercury in aquaculture settings. Recent multi-partner publications demonstrate the project's impact across various fields, including analytical chemistry, food chemistry, aquaculture, and environmental sciences. For instance, in the realm of food chemistry, the project has assessed the role of dietary selenium in influencing mercury levels in rainbow trout. One study explored how selenium-rich tuna-based diets compared to selenium-poor plant-based diets affected the growth, health, and mercury levels in these fish. This research helps develop safer and more sustainable fish feeds. In the field of environmental chemistry, MERFISH examined the multi-isotopic composition of brown crab and seafloor sediment in a fjord impacted by mining activities.
Moreover, through its engagement with stakeholders, policymakers, and local communities, particularly in regions affected by mercury pollution, MERFISH aims to raise awareness and inform decision-making processes. By providing evidence-based recommendations for safe fish consumption and promoting sustainable aquaculture practices, the project seeks to mitigate the socio-economic impacts of mercury pollution on vulnerable populations, including coastal communities reliant on fishing for their livelihoods.
Overall, MERFISH endeavors not only to expand scientific knowledge but also to address real-world challenges related to environmental health, food safety, and sustainable development. Through collaborative efforts and innovative research, the project aims to make meaningful contributions to the well-being of both ecosystems and human populations, ultimately fostering a healthier and more resilient future.

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