Project R-9176

Unraveling the hidden pathways of inhaled combustion-derived particles from air pollution (Research)

Starting the engine of a car, lighting the fireplace or BBQ, These all seem like harmless activities, but in reality every single one of them produces and emits different soot types. Research has already proven that exposure to these carbon-based particles causes pulmonary as well as nonpulmonary health effects. Yet, up to now, researchers have been groping in the dark about the exact toxicological mechanisms responsible for the latter and the differential actions of the various particle types. Hence, to help closing this knowledge gap, the aim of the interdisciplinary project is to unravel the hidden pathways of inhaled soot particle types and their relation with non-pulmonary health effects. First, novel advanced microscopic analyses are developed for the differential detection of soot types in biological context. Next, in vitro models are used to study the action of soot particle types at the most important routes of entry, i.e. upper and lower airways. Finally, the in vivo translocation of various soot particles is investigated to understand the developmental origin of non-pulmonary diseases linked to particles inhalation.

01 October 2018 - 09 November 2020