Summary (2022-2027)

This research builds upon the Center’s previous research on the cardiometabolic effects of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs). The major objectives of the Center are to conduct state-of-the-art research on the cardiometabolic toxicity of VOCs and to determine how they affect cardiometabolic disease (CMD) prevalence and severity in exposed populations. These studies are complemented by mode-of-action mechanistic studies in animals to identify the molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to VOC toxicity. The findings of these studies continue to contribute to both the discovery and the validation of sensitive and robust biomarkers that could be used to assess the extent of exposure, metabolism and toxicity. Center investigators are creating new technologies for detecting VOCs at low environmental levels to enable future exposure assessment activities. Senior Center members educate and train junior investigators, graduate students and post-doctoral Fellows in the field of environmental science, and promote relevant community awareness and participation to enhance mutual bidirectional understanding of exposure risk and the health effects of exposure. The findings and discoveries of the Center are transferred to affected communities, end users in public and private sectors, and other stakeholders. For future use and analysis, all samples of human and animal tissues and all data collected during Center investigations are stored in a computer-coded biorepository. Collectively, expansion and growth of the Center activities enhance its contribution and lead to rigorous evaluation and better understanding of the effects of these hazardous chemicals on obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.