Estimating the Absorbed Dose from Dermal Exposure to Toxic Chemicals: Development of Guidelines for Acquisition, Interpretation and Use of In Vivo and In Vitro Data.

Investigators: Annette L. Bunge (PI), Donald L. Macalady (co-PI), and R.H. Guy at University of California, San Francisco.

Sponser Organization: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Duration: 3 year project with a one-year extension. Started June 1994. Completed in 1997.

Abstract: The goal of this research is to develop a consistent, scientifically and experimentally based, procedure for computing realistic estimates of the dermally absorbed dose from an environmental exposure. The computation should ensure protection of human health and be simple enough for routine risk assessments. While dermal exposure data for environmental pollutants are limited, there is a reasonably large data base of in vitro and in vivo dermal absorption measurements of primarily pharmaceutical chemicals into human and animal skins. We will utilize these data to develop predictive algorithms of the dermally absorbed dose for in vivo human exposures. Additionally, we will identify the key experiments which are needed and specify the proper experimental protocols and analyses which will provide unambiguous results. This approach most efficiently meets the project goal by utilizing, as much as possible, the data which already exist and identifying where future experimental resources are most critically needed.


A Study of Modified Aerobic Maturation Ponds to Improve Secondary Effluent Water Quality to Potable Water Levels.

Investigators: Linda A. Figueroa (PI), Bruce D. Honeyman (co-PI), and Charoen Sanpawanitchakit (Grad Student)

Sponser Organization: Coors Brewing Company