Organic aerosol from various sources and the arisen health concerns (created by Dall-E).
Connecting Oxidative Potential of Organic Aerosol with its Chemical Composition and Emission Sources
Background: Organic aerosol (OA) has become a significant global health concern due to its proven adverse effects. Recent studies have highlighted a correlation between the prevalence of certain organic compounds, such as quinones and alkaloids, in ambient particulate matter and the expression of oxidative stress in humans. These findings suggest that exposure to OA may pose higher health risks compared to exposure to other particulate constituents like sulfate and nitrate salts. Nonetheless, the intricate nature of OA composition and its diverse sources has so far hindered definitive conclusions regarding the specific contributions of different organic chemicals to oxidative potential (OP).
Research Goals: Our research aims to dissect the contributions of various organic aerosols—such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), terpenes, and alkaloids—to oxidative stress. These compounds originate from varied sources including wildfire emissions, secondary atmospheric formation, and indoor emissions. We intend to establish a clear link between chemical speciation, source identification, and health outcomes associated with different oxidative potential markers. This investigation will span both controlled laboratory experiments and comprehensive field studies.
Expected Outcomes: By elucidating the relationships between the chemical properties of organic aerosols, their sources, and their oxidative effects, this research will offer valuable insights into mitigating the health risks associated with air pollution. The findings are expected to inform public health policies and contribute to the development of more effective air quality management strategies, particularly in areas frequently impacted by significant sources of organic aerosols.
Current Status: I am collaborating with Dr. Ran Zhao to potentially co-supervise a PhD student on this initiative. Stefan Marano is actively engaged in this project.
Understanding Health Relevance of Oxidative Potential (OP) of Wildfire-emitted Particulate Matter by Linking OP to Cellular Responses
Background: Oxidative potential (OP) is increasingly recognized as a critical health metric for evaluating the disproportionate toxicological effects of PM2.5's complex chemical composition. Given the variability and specificity of health impacts associated with different OP endpoints, such as dithiothreitol (DTT) depletion, glutathione (GSH) consumption rate, and hydroxyl radical (OH) generation, a comprehensive approach is essential for accurately predicting health outcomes related to PM exposure. This project builds on the premise that a multifaceted approach to measuring OP, integrating various bio-chemical endpoints, can offer a more precise understanding of the health risks posed by particulate matter, particularly that enriched with wildfire emissions.
Research Goals: Our research starts with the development of an automated OP analysis system to enable high-throughput and reproducible measurements of OP, wich will be further connected with cellular response measurements including cytotoxicity and immune responses. Given the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires globally, the study will prioritize PM2.5 samples enriched with emissions from wildfire events, aiming to understand the specific health implications of such exposures.
Expected Outcomes: By linking OP measurements to specific cellular responses, the study expects to elucidate the mechanisms by which PM2.5 induces health effects, providing insights that surpass conventional gravimetric-based evaluation. This integration may further lead to the development of a robust, multifactorial health metric, which is anticipated to play a pivotal role in the revolution of public health guidelines and pollutant regulation, particularly concerning exposure to PM from wildfires.
Current Status: Dr. Behzad Heibati is actively engaged in this project under co-supervision of Dr. Paige Lacy and Dr. Haoran Yu.
Development of an automated OP measurement system and the connection of OP and cellular responses (created by Dall-E).
Measuring OP in both indoor and outdoor environment (created by Dall-E).
Investigating the Effect of Wildfire Infiltration to Indoor Air Quality from a Health Perspective
Brief intro: In Canada, individuals spend more than 80% of their daily time indoors on average. While the characteristics of wildfires and their broad environmental impacts have been extensively studied, less attention has been paid to their infiltration into indoor environments and the consequent health effects. With indoor particle removal systems such as ventilation units and air filters implemented in modern buildings, people often understate the impact of outdoor air infiltration on indoor air quality. However, the severity of wildfire episodes in Alberta significantly challenges these air pollution control systems in households, particularly those in high-risk zones, prompting questions about the adequacy of existing measures to reduce indoor exposure. Moreover, once indoors, these fine particles may undergo further physical and chemical interactions with the indoor environment, potentially altering their OP. Therefore, a detailed investigation of indoor versus outdoor PM2.5 during wildfire events is crucial to address this significant knowledge gap.
Current Status: We are actively seeking grants and potential PhD students to support this research initiative.