Toxicological mechanisms and effects

Utrecht University researchers investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of toxic substances (food-related products, health products, drugs and environmental contaminants) on the nervous system. Research focuses on adverse effects of toxic substances on neuronal network activity, membrane signaling through membrane receptors and ion channels, and on cellular communication through exocytosis. Additionally, intracellular signaling cascades and neurodevelopment are studied for further hazard characterization of various classes of environmental toxicants.

Projects focus on those exposures that are associated with strong societal concern (e.g., alternative flame retardants, drugs of abuse and electromagnetic fields) and/or neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's Disease (e.g., pesticides and chemical mixtures) and/or developmental neurological disorders, such as ADHD/ASD (chemical mixtures of pesticides and persistent organic pollutants).

 

Research Projects