Research

Behrendt lab

We create and explore multiparametric environments to expand our understanding of the effects of physico-chemical perturbations on organisms in their natural habitat.

Contact: Ass. Prof. Dr. Lars Behrendt

The EpiTox group

The Molecular Toxicology and Epigenetics (EpiTox) group focusses on understanding molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals on (neuro)development. In particular, we are focussing on epigenetic changes, i.e. long-lasting changes in gene regulation that do not involve alteration in the DNA sequence.

Contact: Prof. Dr. Joëlle Rüegg

The frog as a model in developmental and reproductive toxicology

Using the frog as a model we investigate endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity using methods that range over several levels of biological organisation including molecular, physiological, and behavioural. We explore effects of environmental chemicals on the sex hormone system, metabolic and neuroendocrine systems.

Contact: Assoc. Prof. Cecilia Berg

Jönsson lab

The zebrafish is a small vertebrate whose development can be directly monitored by microscope. In our studies, we use zebrafish as a model to investigate the effects of environmental pollutants on the body’s metabolism and fat tissue development. Among other things, we have seen that zebrafish fry develop more fat cells and get altered metabolism if exposed to mixtures of anthropogenic chemicals, which are found in human blood.

Contact: Dr. Maria Jönsson