Our Research Explained

Understanding the Impact of Airborne Pollutants on Fetal Health 

The UPRISE project is dedicated to uncovering how ultrafine particulate matter (UFPs) and micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) affect fetal development, leading to adverse birth outcomes (ABOs) such as preterm birth. Our research brings together experts from environmental science, toxicology, neonatology, epidemiology, and public health to provide new insights into these emerging pollutants and their long-term effects on human health. 

How Our Research is Conducted 

UPRISE uses a multidisciplinary approach, integrating: 

  • Exposure Assessment & Monitoring – We measure UFPs and MNPs in urban environments and assess their concentration in different exposure scenarios. 

  • Clinical Studies – Pregnant participants in varying pollution environments provide valuable data for analyzing biological responses. 

  • Molecular & Genetic Analysis – Using advanced transcriptomic, epigenetic, and mitochondrial mutation studies, we investigate the biological pathways leading to ABOs. 

  • Causal Models & Risk Assessment – Our team develops weight-of-evidence-based causal models to demonstrate the link between pollutant exposure and fetal health risks. 

  • Data-Driven Policy Support – We create user-friendly reporting tools to ensure that our findings directly contribute to improving air quality standards and health policies at national and EU levels. 

Why It Matters 

  • Better Public Health Protection – Identifying risks and mechanisms to reduce preterm births and related health issues. 

  • Improved Air Quality Regulations – Providing policymakers with scientific evidence to refine European and national air pollution standards. 

  • Advancing Scientific Knowledge – Filling critical knowledge gaps on how emerging pollutants interact with fetal development. 

  • Empowering Communities – Raising awareness and providing tools for pregnant individuals and healthcare professionals to make informed decisions. 

Through this groundbreaking research, UPRISE aims to protect future generations from the harmful effects of air pollution and improve maternal and newborn health worldwide. 

Collaborations 

At UPRISE, we believe that strong partnerships amplify impact. Collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and projects is key to addressing the complex challenges of environmental health — especially when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable, like unborn children. 

Through our collaborations, we aim to:   

  • Foster scientific exchange and data sharing 

  • Strengthen policy outreach and stakeholder engagement 

  • Promote interdisciplinary innovation 

  • Contribute to a broader European and global health agenda 

  

Featured Collaboration: ExpoHealthNet 

We are proud to collaborate with ExpoHealthNet, a Horizon Europe-funded project working to strengthen the network of exposome research in Europe. ExpoHealthNet focuses on enhancing collaboration between projects that explore the effects of environmental exposures on human health, with the aim of building a more integrated, impactful research landscape. Overall, the joint effort of the 7 environmental research consortia - funded with a total of more than 56 million Euro within the specific HORIZON call - will create added value and advanced policy guidance and public health information.

ExpoHealthNet offers valuable opportunities for: 

  • Knowledge exchange on exposure monitoring and biological mechanisms 

  • Participation in a shared European network of environmental health projects 

  • Increased visibility and uptake of project results through coordinated dissemination efforts 

Together, we’re working to advance a more connected, evidence-based approach to environmental and public health across Europe. 

Learn more about ExpoHealthNet