Superfund Research Program
Oxidative Stress Core
Project Leader: Tammy R. Dugas
Grant Number: P42ES013648
Funding Period: 2011-2018
Project-Specific Links
- Project Summary
Project Summary (2011-2018)
Exposure to fine particles and ultrafine particles in contaminated Superfund soils or produced from thermal treatment of hazardous substances may present health hazards, such as the exacerbation of pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases. The Center objective includes determining the involvement of particle-generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress mechanisms in toxicities observed within target tissues. The Oxidative Stress Core provides support for research to Dr. Barry Dellinger, Dr. Stephania Cormier's, Dr. Kurt Varner's, and Dr. Wayne Backes' research. Dr. Dellinger is determining how the molecular pollutants react with surfaces to form environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFR) and why they are stabilized. Critical to this effort is elucidating whether the particles themselves redox-cycle to generate ROS. The Core is assisting with measurements of ROS produced in particle systems in vitro. Dr. Backes is determining the role of cytochrome P450 in the initiation/exacerbation of particle-induced ROS production. The Core is providing support for the measurements of ROS and lipid oxidation in lung microsomes isolated from UFP-treated rats. Drs. Cormier and Varner are assessing the role of ultrafine particles in exacerbating ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart, as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, through mechanisms involving oxidative stress. The Core provides service to these research projects by conducting measurements of ROS production and oxidative stress. Core members utilize the most current technologies, but also use well-established approaches to measuring the necessary endpoints. Importantly, the Core adapts to the changing needs of the projects and develops new techniques as necessary. The Core is well equipped with the necessary expertise and personnel, and all relevant instrumentation available in the Core Leader's laboratory, including spectrophotometers, HPLC, and LC-MS/MS, is made available to the Core. The strengths of the Core include the breadth of expertise of the Core Leader and personnel, the accessibility/cooperativity of the Core personnel, and the strong collaboration already in place between the Core and the research projects.