PhD-talk Eduardo Jose dos Santos Souza

Assessing the Toxic Potency of Saharan Dust Particles

Mineral dust particles, particularly those originating from the Sahara Desert, play a significant role in global aerosol transport and atmospheric chemistry. These particles can travel thousands of kilometers across continents, impacting air quality, human health, and ecosystems. Saharan dust is a major contributor to long-range aerosol transport, and its interactions with other aerosol species, including particle-bound mercury, highlight the complex chemical composition of these atmospheric particles. In this talk, we will explore the toxic potency of Saharan dust particles by focusing on their ability to deplete body antioxidants, a key indicator of oxidative stress. The presentation will cover various proxies used to measure the oxidative potential (OP) of particulate matter loaded with mineral dust, particularly through OP assays such as the dithiothreitol (DTT) and ascorbic acid (AA) methods. These assays are commonly used to quantify the potential of aerosol particles to induce oxidative damage, which is a significant pathway for adverse health effects. Moreover, the talk will address the challenges associated with the standardization of OP assays. We will discuss ongoing efforts to improve the reliability and comparability of these assays, highlighting the need for consistent methodologies in assessing the toxicity of aerosols. By examining the interaction of Saharan dust with other aerosol species, the talk will provide insights into the complex mechanisms driving oxidative stress and the implications for public health in regions affected by dust storms.

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(Meeting-ID: 624 5161 2339, Kenncode: 415343)