Conduct of studies to evaluate the toxic potential of tungsten metal and fibrous tungsten suboxide in laboratory animals for the National Toxicology Program (NTP)

NIH RePORTER · NIH · N01 · $264,278 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

The goal of this project is to provide support of National Toxicology Program (NTP) hazard identification activities targeted toward the prevention of diseases or adverse effects caused by environmental exposure to chemical or physical agents. Toxicity testing is an important aspect of public health research in that it serves to identify chemicals that are hazardous to human health. Proper conduct of toxicology studies is required to ensure that the resulting data are reliable. This project involves the conduct of toxicity studies of tungsten metal and suboxide fibers in rats and mice, following exposure via nose-only inhalation. Exposure to various tungsten oxides and suboxides occurs in a number of metallurgical processes in the tungsten refining industry, thereby resulting in the formation of whiskers/fibers that are thought to be more toxic than tungsten powder. The data from this project will be used in the development of sound, scientific conclusions about the potential toxicity of tungsten metal and suboxide fibers in rats and mice and ultimately supports the risk assessment efforts of National Toxicology Program and other federal agencies. In addition, the public can be adequately informed about risk factors arising from exposure to different forms of tungsten. Keywords: toxicity, tungsten, inhalation, lung

Key facts

NIH application ID
10143137
Project number
273201400015C-P00017-9999-21
Recipient
BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
Principal Investigator
BARNEY SPARROW
Activity code
N01
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2020
Award amount
$264,278
Award type
Project period
2014-04-15 → 2021-04-14