NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Protea Biosciences Group today announced a collaboration with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to use mass spectrometry to study the occupational hazards of inhaling aerosols that are released during welding and electronic manufacturing.
During the processes, workers are exposed to fumes that may contain harmful chemicals, such as manganese, chromium, and nickel, NIOSH toxicologist James Antonini said, adding that previous research suggests workers who are exposed to such fumes may be at greater risk for lung disease, neurological disorders, and infection.
"[W]e are working with Protea's Imaging and Bioanalytical Laboratory to understand the molecular interaction and physiological impact of these inhalants," he said in a statement.
Protea VP of Operations Greg Kilby added, "Developing and applying mass spectrometry imaging workflows for these inhalations studies enables us to deliver molecular images and analytical results, which ultimately have an impact on workplace safety for million of workers in these industries."