Radiation Dosimetry and Toxicology

Widely known for its leadership in radiation dosimetry and toxicology, the Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute conducts a variety of studies at its Inhalation Toxicology Laboratory facility.

State-of-the-art expertise in aerosol generation and characterization technology, multispecies exposure capability, radiation measurement, pathophysiology, pathology, and dose/response/risk evaluation and modeling is available as needed to meet study goals. Material-specific dosimetry and toxicology for process materials, radiolabeled drugs, and custom-produced test materials can be evaluated at the cell, tissue, organ or whole organism levels. Evaluation endpoints range from molecular markers of dose and effect, to physiological response, to traditional gross and histopathological evaluation.

Our scientists are experienced in handling scarce, hazardous materials and work with sponsors during all phases of studies, from experimental design to interpretation of findings.

Key Capabilities:

• Design and generation of customized radioactive aerosols for studies of biodynamics, dosimetry and toxicology
• Inhalation exposures with radioactive materials including radiolabeled compounds (Tracer Studies)
• Total and regional respiratory tract deposition and clearance in laboratory animals, humans, and airway replicas
• In vivo and in vitro bioassays for laboratory animals and humans
• High-resolution dosimetry of tissues and organs using autoradiography and image analysis
• Dose and effects measurements using molecular and genetic biomarkers
• In vitro toxicity assays with animal and human cells
• Multicomponent toxicology (e.g., radiation and hazardous chemicals) and pharmacology (e.g., radiation and chemotherapy)

In Addition

• Prospective and retrospective dose assessment using state-of-the-art regulatory and custom-designed mathematical models
• Risk assessment and modeling
• Confidentiality, proprietary, and intellectual property agreements
• Independent studies or collaboration with sponsor's in-house research and development