Dr. Liz M. Diaz-Vazquez

University of Puerto Rico, Puerto Rico

Abstract Title: Ecotoxicity of Bare and Algal Polysaccharide-Coated Metal Nanoparticles: A Comparative Study Using Aliivibrio fischeri as a Model Organism to predict Marine Environmental Safety

Biography: Dr. Liz M. Díaz Vázquez, originally from Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, earned her B.Sc. (2000) and Ph.D. (2005) in Chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras. She has held prestigious fellowships, including from the Institute of Biotechnology and the Department of Homeland Security. Currently, she is a professor and Director of the Chemistry program at UPRRP. Dr. Díaz leads research in Environmental Analytical Chemistry, focusing on emerging contaminants and sustainable nanomaterials. She also directs the Center for Innovation Research and Education in Environmental Nanotechnology and advocates for women in science through multiple outreach initiatives

Research Interest: This study examines the ecotoxicity of bare and algal polysaccharide-coated metal nanoparticles, using Aliivibrio fischeri as a model organism to evaluate their effects on marine ecosystems. The primary objective is to assess whether surface modifications with algal polysaccharides can reduce the toxicity of metal nanoparticles, offering more environmentally friendly alternatives for marine applications. Ecotoxicity was evaluated through growth inhibition, bioluminescence assays, and metabolic profiling using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results indicate that algal-coated nanoparticles, particularly those modified with ulvan, significantly lower toxicity. These findings emphasize the role of surface modifications in enhancing the safety of nanomaterials in marine environments.