Research using cultured cells

In vitro research involves the use of cell lines or cells obtained from donors to investigate the effects of inhalation at a cellular level. Such research can help determine the mechanism of toxicity or compare the potential toxicity of different substances.

Research using laboratory animals

RIVM uses laboratory animals only if there are no alternative methods available to conduct essential research. This can be necessary to study the toxicity of inhaled substances. Existing laboratory tests using cells may not provide adequate information regarding the effects on the immune system or the impact of an organism’s behaviour. Additionally, such tests are not always suitable when examining effects on other areas of the body beyond the original point of entry at the lungs.

Research involving human volunteers

There is a growing societal desire to minimise the use of laboratory animals in research. For this reason, alongside in vitro research and computer modelling, RIVM conducts research that involves human volunteers. Such research is known as human clinical research, and it is necessary because cells and computer models cannot fully replicate the complexity of the respiratory system and the human body as a whole. Human clinical research studies the effects of substances on humans, typically in a medical setting.

Over the past fifteen years, RIVM has conducted a range of studies in collaboration with and under the supervision of pulmonologists and cardiologists. We have investigated the effect of diesel emissions, carbon and gold nanoparticles, and graphene oxides. We have also conducted field studies near roads with heavy traffic and on Schiphol airport runways.