Overview

Traffic noise and air pollution, especially particulate matter (PM) and ultrafine particles (UFP), are closely linked environmental risk factors that contribute significantly to the development of diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and atherosclerosis.

MARKOPOLO aims to investigate the impact of traffic noise and air pollution, especially fine and ultrafine particulate matter, on human health through an innovative translational approach. Experimental and computational models are used in clinical, interventional and epidemiological studies. One of the main objectives is to identify disease-relevant biomarkers and to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in diseases of the brain, lung and cardiovascular system. The “from bench-to-bedside” approach uses extensive knowledge of the brain-heart connection and applies modern methods to better understand the causes of disease.

Project duration

4 years

EU grant amount

7.99 million €

Swiss grant amount

1.28 million €

Partners

15 institutions

Project start

1st January 2025

Objectives

MARKOPOLO will advance our understanding of the complex interplay between noise, air pollution, and human well-being.

We aim to close gaps in knowledge and strengthen the evidence base for pollution-disease associations for traffic noise and air pollution (PM including UFP), especially synergetic interactions, and accounting for effects in susceptible groups and in different genders.
1
We take a unique translational approach by implementing experimental/computational models, and clinical and epidemiological studies to provide FAIR data on associations between exposures and health outcomes.
2
A primary goal is to identify disease-relevant biomarkers and causality mechanisms to understand the biological pathways of cerebral, pulmonary and cardiovascular health outcomes.
3
Our “bench to life” approach is entirely driven by profound preclinical mechanistic knowledge and will use novel multiomics methodology (e.g. redox/phospho-proteomics and “spatial” epigenetics), allowing the analysis of key pathomechanisms, to be included in exposure-response models. This will improve risk assessment and allow evaluation of the effectiveness of mitigation strategies.
4
We will also consider the societal circumstances and policies at the national level and their impact on different stakeholders.
5

Impact

MARKOPOLO will advance our understanding of the complex interplay between noise, air pollution, and human well-being.

Scientific

The project investigates the health impacts of noise and air pollution, emphasizing vulnerable populations and improving FAIR data practices. MARKOPOLO aims to uncover causal mechanisms for effective interventions, assess the role of UFP metrics in disease risk, and advocate for stricter UFP emission standards.

Technological

The project enhances disease burden estimates by refining exposure-response functions and identifying key biomarkers for noise and UFP exposure. These advancements improve risk predictions, validate interventions, and leverage innovative tools and technologies.

Socioeconomic

The project supports regulatory efforts by providing evidence for risk assessments, guidelines, and standards. It raises awareness of environmental hazards, reduces healthcare costs, and improves quality of life. MARKOPOLO addresses climate change impacts, aligning with the European Green Deal to create a healthier, more sustainable environment.

Contact

Scientific Coordinator

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Andreas Daiber
Head of the Molecular Cardiology Research
University Medical Center Mainz, Germany
Email: daiber@uni-mainz.de

Project management

concentris research management gmbh (concentris)
82256 Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany
Phone: +49 (0)8141 6252 8570
Email: juliane.dittrich@concentris.de
  • CLABORATOIRE NATIONAL DE SANTE
    (LNS)
    Dudelange, Luxembourg
  • LUXEMBOURG INSTITUTE OF HEALTH
    (LIH)
    Strassen, Luxembourg
  • SCHWEIZERISCHES TROPEN UND PUBLIC HEALTH INSTITUT
    (SWISS TPH)
    Basel, Switzerland
  • UNIVERSITAETSMEDIZIN DER JOHANNES GUTENBERG-UNIVERSITAET MAINZ
    (UMC-Mainz)
    Mainz, Germany
  • Max-Planck-Institut für Chemie
    (MPI-C)
    Mainz, Germany
  • Kræftens Bekæmpelse – The Danish Cancer Society
    (DCS)
    ‍    København, Denmark
  • concentris research management gmbh
    (CONCENTRIS)
    Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany
  • VYTAUTO DIDZIOJO UNIVERSITETAS
    (VMU)
    Kaunas, Lithuania
  • ITA-SUOMEN YLIOPISTO
    (UEF)
    Kuopio, Finland
  • JULIUS-MAXIMILIANS-UNIVERSITAT WURZBURG
    (JMU)
    ‍    Wuerzburg, Germany
  • UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI PADOVA
    (UNIPD)
    Padova, Italy
  • FACULTY OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF BELGRADE
    (MFUB)
    ‍    Belgrade, Serbia
  • INSTITUT ZA NUKLEARNE NAUKE VINCA INSTITUT OD NACIONALNOG ZNACAJA ZA REPUBLIKU SRBIJU, UNIVERZITET U BEGRADU
    (VINS)
    ‍    Belgrade, Serbia
  • THE CYPRUS INSTITUTE
    (CYI)
    Nicosia, Cyprus
  • Medical University of South Carolina
    (MUSC)
    Charleston, SC, United States

partners