A calorimetric method for the rapid evaluation of toxic substances using Tetrahymena pyriformis

Calorimetric measurements are performed to study cultures of Tetrahymena py riformis. These protozoa produce heat by metabolism and movement. The addit ion of toxic substances results in a reduction of the heat production. The concentration and the chemical structures of the toxic substances have an i nfluence upon the toxicity measured by the heat production of T. pyriformis . The calorimetric measurements enable a rapid and accurate determination o f toxic effects against T. pyriformis. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All r ights reserved.