Detecting harmful toxins in fish tissue

Development of analytical methods for detecting microcystins in fish tissue

NIH-funded research Cornell University · NIH-11075654

This study is working on a new way to check for harmful toxins in fish and other animals to help keep our food safe, especially in places where pollution and climate change are a concern.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCornell University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ithaca, United States)
Project IDNIH-11075654 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing and validating a method to detect microcystins, which are toxic compounds produced by harmful algal blooms, in fish and other animal tissues. The study aims to create a reliable quantitative method using Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) to ensure food safety and veterinary diagnostics. By validating this method, the research will improve the ability to assess the safety of fish consumed by humans, particularly in areas affected by pollution and climate change.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who consume fish from waterways affected by harmful algal blooms.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume fish or are not exposed to waters impacted by harmful algal blooms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance food safety by ensuring that fish consumed by humans are free from harmful toxins.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in detecting microcystins in water, but this approach for fish tissue is novel and has not been thoroughly validated.

Where this research is happening

Ithaca, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.