PhD Studentship: Exploring How Environmental Pollutants Cross the Brain's Defence

Pollution is one of the greatest challenges of our time, contributing to millions of premature deaths globally each year. Airborne particles, a major component of air pollution, are not only harmful themselves but also act as carriers for various toxic substances, significantly impacting human health and the environment. Fine particulate matter, in particular, has been linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and recent studies suggest that these particles can even affect the brain. This project offers a unique opportunity to explore how these particles penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and influence brain health using an innovative 'Brain-on-a-Chip' model. 

Traditional methods of studying these impacts often rely on animal testing, which raises ethical concerns and has limitations in predicting human responses. In line with the 3Rs principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement, this project aims to develop a cutting-edge, 3D in vitro BBB model using human primary cells. By creating this sophisticated 'Brain-on-a-Chip', we aim to transform the way we assess the neurotoxicity of pollutants, offering a rapid, low-cost, and human-relevant alternative to traditional animal models. 

The project also leverages an extensive collection of air pollution samples gathered from diverse environments, including urban and rural areas in the UK and China, as well as remote regions like Greenland. These samples, collected from various sources such as road traffic, industrial emissions, and natural dust, have been extensively characterized in terms of their chemical composition and physical properties. Using our BBB model, we will screen these particles to understand their toxicity and ability to cross the BBB, correlating their effects with their chemical make-up and pollutant content. 

By integrating these experimental results with advanced data analysis and predictive modeling, we aim to build a quantitative structure-activity model that can forecast the potential neurotoxic effects of different air pollutant mixtures. This research not only contributes to our understanding of the health impacts of air pollution but also supports the development of safer regulatory policies and innovative strategies for pollution management, paving the way for healthier and more sustainable environments. 

For further information on this project and details of how to apply to it please click on the above 'Apply' button

Further information on how to apply for a CENTA studentship can be found on the CENTA website: https://centa.ac.uk/

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