As part of the RECETOX-organized EUROTOX workshop, which focuses on advanced approaches to chemical risk assessment, regulatory toxicology, and compliance with European legislation, participants also visited CELSPAC. During the visit, young researchers, PhD students, postdocs, and toxicology experts learned how long-term population studies and biobanks can contribute to toxicological research.
During the visit, participants were introduced to the long-term CELSPAC population studies, which have been following Brno residents across three generations. These unique studies enable researchers to investigate the relationships between exposure to chemical substances, lifestyle factors, and population health over time.
The programme also included a tour of the CELSPAC biobank facilities, dedicated to the processing, analysis, and long-term storage of biological samples. Participants learned about the automated workflows that ensure standardized sample handling and preservation at the highest possible quality. Thanks to these processes, samples can be safely stored for many years and remain available for both current and future research projects.
Specific toxicological research projects utilizing samples and data collected from study participants were also presented. Through these projects, researchers monitor the presence of chemical substances in the environment and in the human body and investigate their potential impacts on human health. Examples included studies focusing on the occurrence of toxic substances in breast milk, urine, and household dust.
The visit provided participants with valuable insight into the intersection of population research, biobanking, and toxicology, demonstrating how long-term data collection and biological samples can contribute to public health protection and scientific advancement.
We hope that the visit to the CELSPAC biobank was both informative and inspiring, and we wish all participants success in their future research and professional activities.
