The NEMESIS project is a European research project that studies how some everyday chemicals can affect human health, especially our metabolism.
These chemicals, known as endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), can interfere with hormones. NEMESIS focuses in particular on how these chemicals may influence how our bodies use energy, regulate blood sugar, and store fat.
By better understanding these effects, the project aims to support healthier lives and stronger public health protection across Europe.
Why this research matters?
Health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other metabolic disorders are increasing worldwide. These conditions are complex and influenced by many factors, including diet, physical activity, genetics, and social conditions.
Research now shows that environmental factors, including exposure to certain chemicals, may also play a role.
NEMESIS helps answer important questions, such as:
- How do EDCs affect metabolism over time?
- What happens when people are exposed to mixtures of chemicals?
- How can risk assessment be improved?
- How can positive health behavior be promoted?
Understanding these links is essential for improving prevention and protecting future generations.
What is done in this project?
NEMESIS brings together scientists from different fields across Europe, including toxicology, medicine, biology, and public health.
The project works to:
- Study how EDCs affect target organs (e.g.: liver, pancreas or gut)
- Understand how exposure happens in real-life situations
- Identify which life stages are most sensitive
- Improve methods to assess chemical risks
- Provide evidence to support better policies and decision-making
- Translate the produced knowledge and communicate for the public
A key focus is on real-life exposure, not just with single chemicals, but the mixtures people encounter every day.
From science to action
One of the main goals of NEMESIS is to make scientific knowledge useful and accessible.
This means:
- Supporting policymakers with evidence to improve regulations
- Helping health professionals better understand environmental risks
- Providing clear and reliable information for the public
By connecting science with real-world decisions, NEMESIS contributes to creating safer environments and healthier communities. That is why this website is part of this project and you can find here evidence-based information.
Also, NEMESIS is part of a broader European effort to better understand and address the impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals on health. By working together with other research initiatives, on the ENKORE cluster, the project contributes to a growing body of knowledge that supports stronger protection of people and the environment.
The work of NEMESIS is about more than research. It is about building knowledge that can lead to practical solutions, informed choices, and effective policies.
By understanding how everyday chemical exposures affect our bodies, we can take steps, as individuals and as a society, to protect health now and in the future.