Biomarker Development

Our Laboratories have extensive experience in the development, validation and application of novel exposure biology methods. State-of-the-art equipment is available to measure ultra-trace levels of multiple organic and inorganic chemicals in biological and environmental matrices.

These include:

• Inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
• Laser ablation
• Direct mercury analyzer
• High resolution liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (Q-TOF-MS)
• Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
• Gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS)

An important area of development is the use of biological matrices (such as human teeth) to retrospectively uncover the timing of chemical exposure during the prenatal and early childhood periods. These applications are directed towards uncovering early life determinants of childhood and adult disorders by identifying critical windows of susceptibility to environmental chemical mixtures. Concentrations of a panel of over 20 metals/metalloids and organic chemicals (e.g. bisphenol A, phthalates and pesticides) are routinely measured in whole blood, serum, urine, hair, toenails, teeth and other biological media. The Laboratory participates in various inter-laboratory calibration programs internationally to ensure the highest standards of operation.

Key Researchers in this area are:

Manish Arora, BDS, MPH, PhD
Chitra Amarasiriwardena, PhD
Christine Austin, PhD
Syam Andra, PhD
Megan Niedzwiecki, PhD