Research in the Toxicology Section focuses on micro- and nano- particle toxicity, with particular emphasis on their health risk assessment. It also focuses on the elucidation of the mechanisms involved in producing this toxicity through processes such as oxidative stress and inflammation and the ensuing damage to cellular DNA and lipids. Investigations on inflammatory as well as cellular damage markers and transcription factors therefore feature prominently in research conducted in this section.

Research projects fall under the focus areas of:

• Dusts and Dust Related Diseases

The External Advisor for the Toxicology Section is:

• Prof. W. Stevens - University of the Witwatersrand

• University of the Witwatersrand (RSA)
• University of Pretoria (RSA)
• University of Johannesburg (RSA)
• Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) (RSA)
• Institut fur Umweltmedizinische Forschung (IUF) (Germany)
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) (USA)
• University of Edinburgh Medical School (UK)