Characterization of Proteins from Zebra Mussel Shells

Abstract

Wisconsin and Minnesota lakes are under attack from invasive Zebra Mussels, Dreissena polymorpha, a freshwater mussel species native to Eurasia. The Zebra Mussels were introduced to the Great Lakes around 1985–1986 and have continued to aggressively invade the surrounding areas of Minnesota and Wisconsin. Outcompeting native species, including fish, for food sources, Zebra Mussels are thriving. Oddly, this confluence of attributes, i.e., fast growth but undesired presence, offers a unique opportunity to capitalize on the economic potential of this invasive species’ presence in Wisconsin. Previously we have extracted and optimized the protocol for extracting proteins from Zebra Mussel shells. The extracted proteins will be analyzed to find their identity using MALDI‐TOF MS characterization. This will be the next step in determining a possible commercial use in a large pool representing an underutilized potential resource that is also a pest.