Nomination Summary for Microcystin LR (N20031)
Nominated Substances: Microcystin LR
Nomination Date: 05/18/2000
Nominator: NIEHS
Rationale: Cyanobacteria, a blue-green algae associated with eutrophication, and their toxins have been identified by the EPA as drinking water contaminants with high health research priority. Research shows that microcystins, the most common toxins associated with blue-green algae blooms, are hepatotoxic. Incidences of gastroenteritis affecting 1000's of people have been associated with algae blooms. However, very little is known about the chronic low dose effects of microcystin exposure associated with drinking water.