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Neuronal Effects of Microbial Toxins
Project leader Kai Savolainen, Department of Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology

Topeliuksenkatu 41 aA, FIN-00250 Helsinki, Finland Researchers H. Stockmann

Completed by May 2002

Collaborating parties Finnish Research Programme on Environmental Health, Kuopio University

Objectives: Fungal growth in moisture problem houses often leads to exposure to microbes which produce microbial toxins. Besides the typical respiratory tract disorders, recent findings suggest that microbial toxins may cause serious effects in the central nervous system of animals and man. The objective of the study is to try to explore the mechanisms whereby the toxins affect neuronal cells.

Subjects: Neuroblastoma and glioblastoma cells.

Methods: Studying the effects of microbial toxins on oxidarive stress, transcription factors and cell viability (necrosis and apoptosis). Fluorescent probes and different gel separation methods.



Effect of Individual Metabolic Characteristics on Genotoxicity

Project leader Hannu Norppa, Department of Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology Helsinki, Finland. Researchers S. Bernardini, G. Falck, A. Hirvonen, H. Järventaus, J. Tuimala

Completed by Dec. 2005

Objectives: The goal of the project is to clarify the influence of metabolic polymorphisms on the genotoxicity of chemicals in humans.

Materials: The importance of genetic polymorphisms is studied among smokers, foundry workers, bus drivers exposed to vehicle exhaust and nuclear power plant employees, and also among control persons. In addition, the genotoxic metabolites of some industrial chemicals are examined in lymphocyte cultures of donors representing different genotypes.

Methods: The genotoxicological methods applied include cytogenetic analyses from peripheral lymphocytes. Genotype determinations are carried out by means of techniques based on polymerase chain reaction.