HOME

Current Research

1. Biomarkers of exposure to biomass smoke

Methoxypohenols are generated from the pyrolysis of the wood polymer lignin, therefore they are useful markers for exposure to woodsmoke. We have developed GC/MS methodology to measure methoxyphenols in air particulate and in urine samples.

2. Use of molecular markers for measurement and source apportionment of particulate air pollution

Because different sources of air pollution show differential toxicity in humans, it is important to apportion exposure to air pollution among the different sources.

3. Biomarkers of exposure to diesel exhaust

Diesel exhaust is a major constituent of ambient particulate air pollution, and substantial occupational exposures to diesel exhaust exist (e.g miners, truck mechanics). Diesel exhaust is considered to be carcinogenic and to exacerbate allergic responses. In this project we aim to improve assessment of exposure to diesel exhaust by measuring levels of urinary metabolites of diesel-specific nitro-PAH (e.g. 1-nitro-pyrene metabolites).

4. Markers of oxidative stress associated with exposure to particulate air pollution

F2-isoprostanes (F2-iPs) are derived from the free-radical mediated oxidation of arachidonic acid. 3-nitrotyrosine (3NT) is generated in part from the reaction of peroxynitrite and tyrosine. Levels of both compounds are indicative of oxidative stress /in vivo/.

5. Biomarkers of exposure to organo-phoshporus pesticides

Organo-phosphorus pesticides (OPs) have widespread commercial application. The current procedure used in Washington State to monitor workplace exposures involves measuring cholinesterase activity in workers' blood samples. We are developing an HPLC/MS/MS method to measure OP-cholinesterase adducts in plasma that will be more sensitive and specific to OP exposure than existing methods.

6. Metabolomics

Project description to be added...