Detecting harmful chemicals in drinking water using a test strip

One-step, in-the-field detection of water contamination by unhealthy concentrations of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals affecting Nuclear Receptors arrayed on a test strip

['FUNDING_SBIR_1'] · XCELLASSAY, INC. · NIH-11006684

This study is working on a handy test strip that lets people quickly check their drinking water for harmful chemicals that can affect health, so communities can easily make sure their water is safe to drink.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_1']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorXCELLASSAY, INC. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11006684 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This project aims to create a portable test strip that can quickly identify harmful endocrine disrupting chemicals in drinking water. By utilizing advanced bioassay technology, the test strip will allow for immediate field testing, eliminating the need to send samples to distant laboratories. Patients and communities can use this tool to ensure their drinking water is safe from contaminants that could affect health. The approach focuses on detecting a wide range of chemical pollutants that are currently difficult to monitor.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas with known water quality issues or those concerned about chemical contaminants in their drinking water.

Not a fit: Patients who do not rely on drinking water from potentially contaminated sources may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a rapid and accessible method for communities to monitor their drinking water quality, potentially reducing exposure to harmful chemicals.

How similar studies have performed: Similar approaches using bioassay technology for environmental monitoring have shown promise, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.