DE LUCA Hélène

Biography

Hélène De Luca’s research focuses on assessing human exposure to substances that are toxic to the brain and/or the endocrine system (e.g., endocrine disruptors). To determine their toxicokinetics and develop new biomarkers of exposure and effect, she conducts controlled human inhalation exposure studies and in vitro skin permeation experiments.

Her doctoral research focused on human exposure to organic solvents, particularly propylene glycol ethers, and their potential neurotoxic effects, with a particular emphasis on toxicokinetics and the assessment of internal dose. These solvents serve as carriers or stabilizers for active ingredients and contribute to the risks of exposure via inhalation and dermal routes. Her experimental work established correlations between propylene glycol ether concentrations in air, urine, and blood, as well as the impact of moderate physical activity on internal dose. Her results provide valuable data for the future development of biomonitoring programs and the establishment of occupational exposure limits. 

Hélène De Luca has also conducted in vitro skin permeation studies on human skin. Her work has helped characterize the skin absorption of propylene glycol ethers and phthalate alternatives, areas that remain poorly documented scientifically. Her results suggest that dermal absorption could be a major route of exposure, particularly when using everyday products containing these substances (e.g., cleaning products).