Effect of Diesel Exhaust Exposure on Epigenetics in Individuals with Specific Allergies: A Translational Approach to Understanding the Role of Particulate Matter

Exposure to traffic related air pollution (TRAP) damages the lungs, particularly in people who are at risk of developing long-lasting lung diseases including asthma. This project will examine whether the chemical “coating” attached to many parts of DNA, known as methylation, is changed by TRAP exposure, as this may affect the immune system contributing to asthma development. We also want to discover whether breathing in TRAP reduces how well asthma drugs work. We will identify whether increasing drug dosages or taking additional medications reduces the effects of TRAP exposure on the lungs and thereby immune system.

Faculty Supervisor:

Christopher Carlsten

Student:

Partner:

British Columbia Lung Association

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: