Dr. Nico van den Brink
Environmental toxicology
Environmental toxicology
The environment may be contaminated with different types of chemicals. Historically, most research has focused on more or less contaminated sites while locations with contaminant levels at current background levels have received little attention. Based on recent (human related) research, evidence is building that even background levels of contaminants may result in subtle, chronic effects that may be deleterious for the organisms involved. In this theme, effects of low, chronic exposure of organisms to contaminants will be studied, focusing on small mammals. Thesis project may focus on the immune system, shortening of telomeres and the occurrence of resistant genes. Other topics may involve effects of nanomaterials on soil invertebrates (potential diet for small mammals), and the occurrence of chemicals in Antarctic organisms (analytical chemistry).
Techniques involved
in vitro cell studies (both cell lines and primary cells). In vivo studies on invertebrates (earthworms) and small mammalls. Molecular techniques, including rt-PCR analytical chemistry using ASE, LC-MSMS and GC-MS. Toxicokinetic modeling.
PhD's
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Diego García-Mendoza: Modulatory effects of cadmium exposure on the immune system of small mammals.
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Marta Baccaro: Toxicokinetics of nanoparticles accumulation in earthworms.
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Artem Krasnobaev: Fluxes of persistent organic pollutants in the Antarctic benthic ecosystem.
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Biyao Han: in vitro and ex vivo studies for the assessment of immunomodulation effects of lead acetate on avian immune cells.
