Grantee Research Project Results

PM Characterization and Exposure Assessment (Project 2)

EPA Grant Number: R832417C002
Subproject: this is subproject number 002 , established and managed by the Center Director under grant R832417
(EPA does not fund or establish subprojects; EPA awards and manages the overall grant for this center).
Center: Center for the Study of Childhood Asthma in the Urban Environment
Center Director: Hansel, Nadia
Title: PM Characterization and Exposure Assessment (Project 2)
Investigators: Geyh, Alison , Breysse, Patrick N.
Current Investigators: Geyh, Alison , Ondov, John M. , Breysse, Patrick N. , Rule, Ana , Han, Inkyu , Ramos-Bonilla, Juan , Datta, Saugatta , Chillrud, Steven
Institution: The Johns Hopkins University
Current Institution: The Johns Hopkins University , Kansas State University , Lamont Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University , University of Maryland - College Park
EPA Project Officer: Chung, Serena
Project Period: October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2010
RFA: Particulate Matter Research Centers (2004) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Human Health , Air

Objective:

The focus of Project 2 will be on the measurement of specific chemical components and physical characteristics of PM from different areas of the country, which will be used to identify those characteristics of PM that determine toxicity

Approach:

We will collect bulk PM samples for bioassays and bulk and integrated samples for detailed characterization to include mass, inorganic ions, elemental carbon and organic compounds, specifically polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons , elemental metals and their oxides, and sulfur isotope ratios. We will also evaluate PM characteristics in relation to particle size. We will use this matrix of information to characterize differences in PM composition and biological response by location. The objectives of Project 2 include: 1) developing new methods for collecting bulk PM for use in biological assays; 2) developing a portable system the characterization of chemical and physical properties of ambient PM; 3) identifying specific regional differences in PM characteristics that may contribute to differential biological responses in vitro and in vivo bioassay systems; and 4) assessing a relationship between human exposure to PM_2.5 and biological response during a high PM_2.5 exposure period and a low PM_2.5 exposure periods. By successfully completing this project, we anticpate providing a better understanding of how differences in physiochemical composition impact PM health effects.

Expected Results:

We anticipate that the results of this project will inform PM air quality regulations, suggesting new PM exposure metrics that can be used to modify existing air monitoring networks. Project investigators are well qualified to conduct this research and this project leverages support from a wide range of funded projects, including data from existing air quality databases and resources from a previously EPA funded PM Supersite.

Publications and Presentations:

Publications have been submitted on this subproject: View all 13 publications for this subproject | View all 89 publications for this center

Journal Articles:

Journal Articles have been submitted on this subproject: View all 2 journal articles for this subproject | View all 64 journal articles for this center

Supplemental Keywords:

air pollution, PM10, mobile sources,, RFA, Health, PHYSICAL ASPECTS, Scientific Discipline, Air, particulate matter, Health Risk Assessment, Epidemiology, Risk Assessments, Physical Processes, atmospheric particulate matter, acute cardiovascular effects, long term exposure, atmospheric particles, airway disease, exposure, ambient particle health effects, human exposure, ultrafine particulate matter, atmospheric aerosol particles, aersol particles, particulate matter components, cardiovascular disease

Progress and Final Reports:

Main Center Abstract and Reports:

R832417 Center for the Study of Childhood Asthma in the Urban Environment

Subprojects under this Center: (EPA does not fund or establish subprojects; EPA awards and manages the overall grant for this center).
R832417C001 Estimation of the Risks to Human Health of PM and PM Components
R832417C002 PM Characterization and Exposure Assessment (Project 2)
R832417C003 Biological Assessment of the Toxicity of PM and PM Components

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The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.