Biomonitoring of exposure to air pollutants: early biomarkers of exposure and effect

Mascelloni, Massimiliano (2015). Biomonitoring of exposure to air pollutants: early biomarkers of exposure and effect. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

Preview

Mascelloni15PhD.pdf
PDF - Accepted Version
Download (3MB)

Abstract

Indoor microenvironments can have a relevant contribution towards the total exposure to pollutants.
The biomarkers of exposure and effect were analysed in general population, to evaluate the impact of VOCs, PAHs and tobacco smoke exposure in everyday life.
We designed a model for toxicological studies, as proof of concept for future studies.
We analysed airborne personal exposure to air pollutants, the urinary and oxidative stress biomarkers of three exposure level groups in a non-smoking population from Birmingham, UK, a subset with high exposures to tobacco smoke, and a subset of schoolchildren in Saudi Arabia, living in high pollution areas.
A significant correlation was observed between low concentration urinary cotinine and urinary VOCs. Urinary VOCs were found suitable for exposure assessment of general population, although the correlations with oxidative stress biomarkers were weak.
No significant correlation between urinary PAHs and oxidative stress was observed in schoolchildren from Saudi Arabia, although certain areas showed a significant increase in urinary PAHs and oxidative stress biomarker.
The cell exposure system was designed and tested so it could be applied in future toxicological studies.
The observed ROS generation and DNA damage in the cells after exposure, proved the validity of the model for benzene exposure.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):