Examining chemical exposure in East Palestine after a train accident
Official title: Profiling the Post-accident Exposome in East Palestine
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11013872 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how chemicals from a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, have affected the soil, water, and sediment in the area, so we can better understand any health risks for the community.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | January 22, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $187,863 |
| NIH project number | 5R21ES036033-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013872 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include residents of East Palestine and surrounding communities who may have been exposed to the contaminants.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in or have not been affected by the contamination in the East Palestine area may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the chemical exposure profiles in communities affected by a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. It focuses on monitoring the contamination of soil, water, and sediment due to released chemicals and their by-products. By utilizing both targeted and non-targeted approaches, the study aims to assess the environmental impact and potential health risks associated with these contaminants. The findings will help understand the extent of exposure and inform future health risk assessments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the health risks associated with chemical exposure from the accident, potentially guiding public health responses and interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research has shown success in assessing environmental exposures and health risks following chemical accidents, indicating that this approach is both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
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University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fabisiak, James P — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Fabisiak, James P
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.