Mytilus californianus (IMAGE) Helmholtz Association Caption The California mussel (Mytilus californianus) employs so called MXR proteins that antagonize the accumulation of foreign chemicals in the tissue. Environmental chemicals can act as so called chemosensitizers and block the function of those molecular pumps. Credit Photo: Till Luckenbach/UFZ Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.