MARKOPOLO - Noise and/or ultrafine particulate matter induced cerebral and cardiovascular damage: novel insights from experimental and epidemiological brain-heart axis biomarkers and computational models

Traffic noise and air pollution, especially particulate matter (PM), are closely linked environmental risk factors that contribute significantly to the development of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and atherosclerosis. In Europe, traffic noise is responsible for the loss of 1.6 million healthy life years and air pollution causes around 0.5 million premature deaths each year. Despite these serious effects, these health risks are often not adequately addressed in clinical guidelines. In addition, European limits for noise and particulate matter exceed the standards recommended by the WHO.

MARKOPOLO aims to investigate the impact of traffic noise and air pollution, especially fine and ultrafine particulate matter, on human health through an innovative translational approach. Experimental and computational models are used in clinical, interventional and epidemiological studies. One of the main objectives is to identify disease-relevant biomarkers and to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in diseases of the brain, lung and cardiovascular system. The “from bench-to-bedside” approach uses extensive knowledge of the brain-heart connection and applies modern methods to better understand the causes of disease.

Swiss TPH leads a measurement study on ultrafine particles and other air pollutants in Denmark, Lithuania and Switzerland. The data are used to create spatio-temporal models for epidemiological research in these three countries. Associations of various diseases in relation ultrafine fine particles are elucidated in large national cohorts. Thereby, the so-called exposome concept is applied to understand how numerous environmental factors such as noise, various air pollutants, green space and heat influence the health of the population.

In summary, MARKOPOLO seeks to provide new insights into the effects of environmental factors on the human body, improving risk assessment and evaluating the effectiveness of preventive strategies. By exploring societal and political contexts, the researchers aim to deepen understanding of the complex interplay between noise, air pollution, and human well-being. The findings are expected to support the development of clear and actionable guidelines for a range of stakeholders.