AURORA publishes scientific protocol outlining research

Peer-reviewed article published in JMIR Research Protocols presents background, goals, and methodologies of the entire AURORA Horizon 2020 project; project is developing and refining exposure assessment techniques to measure MNPs and associated chemicals in human tissues; includes enhancing methods for high-resolution and large-scale toxicological assessment, exposure assessment, and epidemiological studies

AURORA study examines cell uptake and interactions of polystyrene MNPs with hormone receptors

Researchers from the AURORA consortium publish a study testing for potential endocrine-disrupting effects of polystyrene (PS) micro- and nanoplastic (MNP) particles; finds uptake of PS-MNP particles differs per cell type; detects limited endocrine-disrupting effects in vitro; reports that PS-MNPs can affect steroidogenesis; study calls for needed additional research

What happens to micro- and nanoplastics in the body?

Study proposes a preliminary physiologically-based toxicokinetic (PBTK) model for micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs); polymer type, size, shape, surface chemistry, surface biofilms, and biocorona determine toxicokinetic rates; models for engineered nanoparticles are not appropriate due to heterogeneity of MNPs; uptake via inhalation and effects of absorbed chemicals need more investigation

AURORA project featured in public health webinar 

Webinar on human exposure and health effects of micro and nanoplastics hosted by Collaborative for Health & Environment puts a spotlight on AURORA and POLYRISK; AURORA project coordinator Roel Vermeulen speaks about progress and challenges; shares first project preliminary results; emphasizes the need for further research and standardized methods