Project R-8198

Mitochondriomics as chronicle of early-life ambient air pollution exposure and effects on cardiovascular and cognitive function in childhood (Research)

Evidence is mounting that exposure to ambient air pollution during the most vulnerable stage in life "the in utero period" is linked with low birth weight and the development of cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological pathologies in later life. Mitochondria are the biochemical power plants of cells, and dysfunction of these sensitive organelles is associated with a range of human diseases. It is well established that mitochondria play an important role in the cellular response to environmental stressors, and thus, can provide a plausible mechanistic link, or act as a biosensor, between exposure and health outcome. I investigate whether mitochondria are novel biosensors reflecting the effects of air pollution exposure by introducing a new research field 'mitochondriomics'. Furthermore, I explore whether mitochondrial changes, measured at birth and follow-up, are involved in the effects of air pollution on cardiovascular and neurobehavioral outcomes at the age of 4 to 6 years. This project is embedded in the framework of the ongoing birth cohort ENVIRONAGE, which is a longitudinal study, starting with recruitment at birth and follow-up at the age of 4-6 year. By unravelling mechanistic pathways of disease, our research would be able to promote better focused preventive health care and well-being strategies that contribute to a healthier living environment for pregnant mothers and their children.

01 October 2017 - 30 September 2020