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Investigations on the skin toxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Project
Project code: BfR-CPS-08-1322-338
Contract period: 01.04.2008
- 31.12.2017
Purpose of research: Basic research
Consumer products, which are contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are still a major concern for human health. Investigations conducted by TUEV Rheinland and Stiftung Warentest revealed concentrations of PAH, as high as 9900 mg per kg product. Further, benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), a carcinogenic PAH was detected at levels up to 500 mg per kg product. One aim of this project was to characterize the risks for consumers, who are in contact with such heavily contaminated products. We have analyzed the biological effects of BaP in human skin and keratinocytes, setting one focus on induction of apoptosis. Although BaP does not induce apoptosis in skin cells, this compound can enhance the effects of pro-apoptotic cytokines, especially FasL. Fas-induced apoptosis is highly relevant in skin and plays an important role in inflammatory skin diseases, such as eczematous dermatitis. 2016: Characterization of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in human skin: Cellular localization, activation and cytotoxic effects.
Section overview
Subjects
- Toxicology
