The research in this proposal is designed to provide a fundamental understanding of the influence of various types of paint product formulations on the dermatopharmacokinetics of two commonly encountered solvents, toluene and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). This research will enhance the ability to accurately extrapolate animal studies to relevant human exposure scenarios and improve hazard and risk assessments. Experimental studies will be conducted with rats using a novel real-time breath analysis system coupled with physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling to determine the penetration rate of toluene and MEK through the skin. The resultant data from these comprehensive evaluations are directly applicable to regulatory agencies in establishing dermal absorption guidelines that mimic actual occupational exposure situations. The specific research objectives are: (1) to describe dermal absorption of toluene and MEK using PBPK models in order to determine skin permeability constants; (2) to evaluate the kinetics and dermal bioavailability of exposure to aqueous and MEK; (3) to describe the dose-dependent kinetics of exposure to toluene and MEK in characterized paint products; and (4) to compare different paint product formulations on the percutaneous absorption of toluene and MEK.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01OH003658-02
Application #
6558672
Study Section
Safety and Occupational Health Study Section (SOH)
Program Officer
Robison, William
Project Start
2001-03-01
Project End
2003-02-28
Budget Start
2002-03-01
Budget End
2003-02-28
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2002
Total Cost
$278,972
Indirect Cost
Name
Battelle Pacific Northwest Laboratories
Department
Type
DUNS #
032987476
City
Richland
State
WA
Country
United States
Zip Code
99352