Enantiomer-specific accumulation of hexabromocyclododecanes in eggs of predatory birds

Chemosphere. 2008 Aug;73(1 Suppl):S193-200. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2007.03.077. Epub 2008 Apr 28.

Abstract

The diastereomeric composition of hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) in eggs of peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), white-tailed sea eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), guillemot (Uria aalge) and common tern (Sterna hirundo) as well as the guillemots' main prey, herring (Clupea harengus) was determined by reversed-phase chromatography with triple-stage quadrupole mass spectrometric detection (LC-MS-MS). alpha-HBCD was the predominant diastereomer in all bird species, while in herring, gamma-HBCD made a substantial contribution. Two, as yet unidentified diastereomers, were detected in common tern egg. The alpha-, beta- and gamma-HBCD (+) and (-) enantiomers were separated using a chiral stationary phase. The enantiomer fractions for alpha-HBCD differed substantially between different bird species as well as between guillemot and its prey, herring. Total HBCD levels determined by LC-MS-MS were comparable to those previously obtained by GC-MS.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Birds / anatomy & histology
  • Birds / metabolism*
  • Chromatography, Liquid
  • Feeding Behavior
  • Hydrocarbons, Brominated / chemistry*
  • Hydrocarbons, Brominated / metabolism*
  • Ovum / metabolism*
  • Predatory Behavior*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Tandem Mass Spectrometry

Substances

  • Hydrocarbons, Brominated
  • hexabromocyclododecane