Analysing breath
As part of the BluE and greeN Infrastructure desiGned to beat the urbaN heat (BENIGN) project, the TDLab is collaborating with Naturalis Biodiversity Center to investigate the response to pollen in hay fever and non-hay fever participants in the city of Leiden. Currently, hay fever is mostly diagnosed through questionnaires, which can be subjective. This research explores whether specific molecules in breath can indicate an allergic reaction, providing a more reliable method based on data. By studying the chemical composition of exhaled air, researchers Nemi Dorst and Joris Meurs aim to identify markers for hay fever that can be used for monitoring exposure to pollen. The results could lead to a better understanding of hay fever at a biochemical level and aid in quantitatively assessing preventive measures that will be implemented within the BENIGN project.
Life Science Trace Detection Laboratory
The Life Science Trace Detection Laboratory (TDLab) is part of the Institute for Molecules and Materials (IMM) of uu77. They host a variety of state-of-the-art instruments, such as developed in house using optical techniques and based on mass spectrometry that allow sensitive and quantitative measurements of large variety of gases such as hydrocarbons, aldehydes, alcohols, ketones, and volatile fatty acids.
Being featured in National Geographic shows the importance of this research in addressing global health issues and the direct benefits to society. “It is nice that the multidisciplinary research we do at TDLab is highlighted in National Geographic magazine to showcase our research to a broader public”, says Joris Meurs, researcher within TDLab.