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Project Code [2007-FS-EH-7-M5]
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Project title
Establishment and validation of a human blood-brain barrier model for screening and risk assessment of nanoparticle access to the brain.
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
University College Dublin (UCD)
Lead Applicant
Meredith Brown
Project Abstract
The blood-brain barrier has evolved to prevent harmful chemicals from reaching the extremely sensitive cells and tissues of the brain. However, it has recently emerged that nanoparticles can pass through the blood-brain barrier. To date there are no well validated co-culture models of the human blood-brain barrier, which could be used as the basis of a nanoparticle screening and risk-assessment program. The aim of this work is to establish and validate such a model and to screen a range of relevant nanoparticles for their ability to pass through the barrier. Comparison with literature animal studies of ultra-fine and nanoparticle uptake and translocation will help to establish the risk parameters.
Grant Approved
�223,647.24
Research Hub
Healthy Environment
Research Theme
Environment and Human Health
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/09/2010