Examining the impact of marine microplastics on seafood safety
Investigating Trophic Exposure to Marine Microplastics and Plasticizers in a Sentinel Species and the Implications for Seafood Safety
This study looks at how tiny bits of plastic in the ocean might affect the safety of seafood, using bottlenose dolphins to help us understand the pollution, and it's a great opportunity for undergraduate students to get hands-on experience in research while learning about the impact of these contaminants on our food.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | College of Charleston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10439010 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how marine microplastics and plasticizers affect seafood safety, using bottlenose dolphins as indicators of pollution. Undergraduate students will engage in hands-on research to assess the risk of exposure to these contaminants through seafood consumption. The study will analyze trophic exposure to microplastics, determine if phthalate exposure indicates microplastic presence, and evaluate variations in exposure over time and location. Participants will gain valuable experience in ecotoxicology and statistical analysis while contributing to scientific publications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who consume seafood regularly and are concerned about the safety and health implications of marine pollution.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume seafood or are not affected by environmental contaminants may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance seafood safety and public health by identifying risks associated with microplastic contamination.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that using sentinel species like dolphins can effectively indicate environmental health risks, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- College of Charleston — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hart, Leslie B. — College of Charleston
- Study coordinator: Hart, Leslie B.
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 below.