Katherine Ellis
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Stuart Batterman
Co-Presenter:
Research Mentor School/College/Department: EHS / Public Health
Presentation Date: April 20
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: Session 3 – 1:40pm – 2:30 pm
Room: League Ballroom
Authors:
Presenter: 103
Abstract
In order to study the exposome and thus the effect of environmental toxins on diseases, it is necessary to be able to find, analyze, and address contamination from outside sources. In studies examining plasma samples and blood spot samples, outside sources of contamination were found to be affecting some of the analytical measurements. The analysis of these samples involves the use of organic solvents to extract the samples, which are then cleaned up and analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) to identify and quantify pesticides, PCBs, PBDEs, and flame retardants. In some samples, unusually elevated levels were identified. We attempted to identify the sources of contamination to allow the studies to continue and to be more accurate. In studying the exposome it is not only necessary to study environmental contamination present in samples, but also how those samples can be further contaminated in the lab. This understanding of extra contamination is essential for accurate and precise studies to be conducted.
Engineering, Natural/Life Sciences
