Funding Type: EPA STRIVE Programme 2007-2013
Funding Year: 2008
Project Type: Medium Scale Project
Total Grant-aid: €350,000
Lead Partner: National University of Ireland Galway
Project Summary:
Despite the benefits of nanotechnology, concern is mounting that due to their unique physico-chemical properties, nanoparticles (NPs) may cause unknown biological effects with environmental and human health consequences. Bioaccumulation, bio-persistence, environmental fate and exposure effects remain to be evaluated. Here, the relationships between physico-chemical properties of metallic NPs and biological effects will be examined using two aquatic (one marine and one freshwater) model organisms. Characterisation of NP accumulation and consequent changes in morphology, development, gene and protein expression will provide a basis for the determination of safe concentrations, detectable exposure levels, and potential biomarkers for NP impact and environmental monitoring.
For further information on the EPA STRIVE Programme, see www.epa.ie