Inhale-HICE

The Helmholtz Virtual Institute of Complex Molecular Systems in Environmental Health (Inhale-HICE)

Duration: 2018-2022

The objective of the ‘The Helmholtz Virtual Institute of Complex Molecular Systems in Environmental Health’ (HICE) is the establishment of a long-term scientific research initiative for the investigation of the causes and mechanisms of environmentally influenced diseases. The project focuses on a deeper understanding of the impact of anthropogenic aerosols on human health. Based on current hypotheses, reactive ogranic compounds in particle as well as in gas phase of aerosols are particularly relevant. Innovative in-vitro human lung tissue models and selected susceptible animal models are exposed to aerosols, and speparated gas and particle phases from relevant sources. The response of the biological systems is investigated by state-of-the art analytical techniques on different biological levels. The complex biolgical response data is chemometrically and bio-statistically analysed in conjunction with comprehensive chemical and physical data of the aerosol used for exposure in order to identify biomarkers of exposure, harm and disease. This approach is forging a bridge from the chemical composition of aerosols to adverse human health effects.

HICE is based on the core cooperation of the Helmholtz Zentrum München and the University of Rostock. The consortium is augmented by the incorporation of outstanding further partners, as well as by excellent foreign institutions including the University of Eastern Finland, Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences.

For more information: Assoc. Prof. Olli Sippula, tel. +358 40 355 3397, olli.sippula(at)uef.fi