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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

Start Date

01/09/2008

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/09/2010