Institute of Neuroimmunology
Topic
Study of the impact of microplastics on cells of the neurovascular unit of the brain
PhD. program
Molecular biology
Year of admission
2024
Name of the supervisor
PharmDr. Andrej Kováč, PhD.
Contact:
Receiving school
Faculty of Natural Sciences Comenius University in Bratislava
Annotation
Microplastics encompass a wide range of materials with varying chemical compositions, shapes, colors, sizes, and densities, present in all environmental compartments. Currently, there is limited information on whether microplastics may pose potential risks to human health. The blood-brain barrier is a physiological barrier that isolates nervous system tissue from the periphery. The aim of the project is to investigate the effect of microplastics on blood-brain barrier cells. Using a cellular model, we will observe the ability of microplastics to penetrate the brain from the peripheral environment. Additionally, we will investigate changes in gene and protein expression after exposure to microplastics in endothelial and glial cells.