Cellular mechanisms of impaired neurodevelopment following early life exposure to air pollution
Lead Research Organisation:
Royal Veterinary College
Department Name: Comparative Biomedical Sciences CBS
Abstract
UNICEF estimates that, world-wide, over 100 million infants are exposed to levels of pollution that exceed World Health Organisation (WHO) recommended limits. London is recognised as one of the worst areas for air pollution in the UK, with levels of exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide regularly exceeding WHO limits. There is growing concern regarding the effect of exposure during gestation and in infancy. The overarching aim of this interdisciplinary project is to define mechanisms targeted by air pollution which impact brain development, by integrating neurocellular homeostasis, neuroinflammation, human neuroimaging and environmental data.
Organisations
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BB/M009513/1 | 01/10/2015 | 31/03/2024 | |||
| 2242000 | Studentship | BB/M009513/1 | 01/10/2019 | 30/09/2023 | Rebecca Morris |
| Description | Exposure to components of air pollution affected some important cellular pathways in the brain. We found that this exposure altered inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function in different brain cell types. We also found that brain cell types responded differently. For example, microglia (the immune cell of the brain) appeared to be more susceptible to the adverse effects of air pollution exposure than neurons. |
| Exploitation Route | These outcomes provide a basis of evidence that air pollution is a risk to public health. Upon further collection of evidence there would be grounds to present a policy change to reduce air pollution exposure levels. |
| Sectors | Environment,Healthcare |
| Description | Presented a poster at a conference |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Presented a poster of my current finding at the international Hershey developmental brain injury conference |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |