Prof. Melgert receives grant to investigate how microfibres affect lung cells

Within the framework of the Momentum consortium (EUR 5.4 million, funded by ZonMw, TNO, Health~Holland and several companies), Prof. Barbro Melgert (GRIP) has been awarded EUR 300,000 to investigate how microfibres affect lung cells, in order to determine the true risk microfibres pose to our health.

The aim of this consortium is to determine the effects of micro- and nanoplastic particles (MNPs) on human health and ultimately to prevent this. In our daily lives we are continuously exposed to microplastic fibres from clothes and textiles. These fibres can enter our bodies through our respiratory system (inhalation) and although prior research has shown a correlation between high exposure to microplastics and certain lung diseases, it is still unknown how these fibres specifically affect our health.

MOMENTUM

The MOMENTUM consortium builds upon the work of 15 breakthrough projects that started in the spring of 2019 within the ZonMw research programme Microplastics & Health. In MOMENTUM, researchers from universities, university hospitals and research organisations work together with companies and important stakeholders. The consortium aims to make an important contribution to solving the societal problem of MNPs in our living environment.