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IMPORTANT MESSAGE, Winter storm: March 11, 2026 – All INRS activities starting before noon will continue in ALL centers. For activities starting after noon, the situation will be re-evaluated at the end of the morning. Find out more

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Ecotoxicogenomics, Environmental DNA/RNA and Endocrine Disruption Laboratory

The Ecotoxicogenomics, Environmental DNA/RNA and Endocrine Disruption Laboratory specializes in organic and inorganic contaminants. Ultra-sensitive animal and cell lines allow the lab team to identify how contaminants can affect the health of vertebrates.

The Ecotoxicogenomics, Environmental DNA/RNA and Endocrine Disruption Laboratory has the expertise, knowledge, facilities, and instruments required for testing the effects of contaminants on living organisms. Unique molecular and physiological biomarkers are developed for each species to help scientists understand and validate the action mechanisms of contaminants, including endocrine disruptors.

LEPE conducts experiments in the laboratory, in microcosms, in mesocosms, and in the field. The facility consists of: A lab and field experiment component, including:
  • Three multipurpose environmental rooms with controlled lighting, temperature, and humidity (e.g., for ecotoxicology test in fish and amphibians)
  • Six automatic incubators with a capacity of hundreds of eggs from various bird species
  • A cell culture hood with a CO2 incubator
  • Mesh cages for exposing tadpoles to the environment
  • Access to all INRS field equipment
  • Access to the INRS CIRSA field research station
  A molecular and cellular biology lab component with instruments including:
  • PCR
  • qPCR
  • Bioanalyzer
  • Biochip scanner
  • Fluorescence reader
  • Electronic dissecting microscope
  • Inverted microscope for cell culture
  A bioinformatics and genomics component with software for analyzing large databases (e.g., Pathway Studio). Access to the INRS analytical chemistry laboratory for quantifying most of the contaminants under study.
The Ecotoxicogenomics and Endocrine Disruption Laboratory is available to Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre faculty, students, and staff for their research projects, with the lab manager’s authorization. Lab resources can also be used for external collaborations and R&D contracts. Please contact us for more information on available services.
Here are some of the themes LEPE is currently addressing in projects that make use of molecular tools:
  • Characterization of the effectiveness of an agricultural water retention pond in reducing pesticides to protect the health of amphibian populations
  • Development of tools for measuring the endocrine effects of industrial and municipal waste
  • Study of the potential effects of Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis islandis) on amphibians
  • Characterization and monitoring of the effects of diluted bitumen on fish as part of a controlled spill in a freshwater lake
  • Development of biomarkers for monitoring the restoration of fish (fathead minnows), frog (wood frog), and bird (cormorant and northern gannet) populations in the event of an oil spill
  • Development of a non-lethal approach for measuring contaminants in polar bears

Contacts

Valérie Langlois
Professor and Scientific head
Phone: 418-654-2547
valerie.langlois@inrs.ca

Boutaina El Jai
Partnerships and Research Development Advisor
Phone: 418 654-2531
boutaina.el_jai@inrs.ca

Ecotoxicogenomics and Endocrine Disruption Laboratory

Institut national de la recherche scientifique

Eau Terre Environnement Research Centre

490 rue de la Couronne

Québec City, Quebec  G1K 9A9

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