Neurotoxicology - Research Groups

Group in Geneva

Neurotoxicology II (Karl-Heinz Krause, co-applicant)
The laboratory is specialized in two areas, converging in the present neurotoxicology project: i) neuronal differentiation of embryonic stem cells (78a) and ii) oxidative stress and its role in cellular and organ toxicity (78b). In order to improve neuronal differentiation protocols with simple means, the laboratory has developed high throughput screening approaches that allow the detection of the effects of small molecules on the fate of neurons. This approach can be readily transferred to detection of neurotoxicity. A second important development in the laboratory is the culture of human neurons in three dimensions, which allows the development of a brain-like human tissue.

Group in Lausanne

In vitro predictive and mechanistic neurotoxicology and related test strategies (P. Honegger, F. Tschudi-Monnet, M.G. Zurich, co-applicants)
The relevant experience of our research group includes the development and application of in vitro models for investigations on the acute and chronic action of environmental neurotoxicants (e.g., heavy metals, organophosphorous pesticides, alimentary mycotoxins, drugs) on brain development and differentiated functions, and the relationship with neurodegenerative, demyelinating,, and neuroinflammatory reactions (25-38). The principal model developed and used by our group, the aggregating brain cell cultures, represent most closely the multicellular architecture, maturation, and functions of the in vivo brain tissue, as indicated by the final ratio of neurons to glial cells, the formation of a histotypic cyto-architecture, the correct timing and extent of developmental events such as cell proliferation, synaptogenesis and myelination, and the elaboration of communicating neuronal networks. Since 2001, our group has been selected for several research projects funded by the European Community specifically aimed i) at the determination of the mechanism of action of an alimentary mycotoxin: a shared-cost RTD project from 2001 to 2004 entitled "Mechanisms of ochratoxin A induced carcinogenicity as a basis for an improved risk assessment"; ii) at the detection and elucidation of organ-specific toxicity: two collaborative/integrating projects, entitled "ACuteTox" from 2005 to 2010, and "Predict-IV" from 2008 to 2013.

Last Updated on Thursday, 25 March 2010 15:38 Created: Tuesday, 07 April 2009 12:45