Exploring the effects of marine toxins on shellfish and public health
Official title: Marine Neurotoxins: Examining the impacts of a pedagogically focused RET model that explores the interplay of marine biotoxins, commercial shellfish aquaculture, and public health safety
Funded at Coastal Marine Biolabs · NIH-10954251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny ocean plants can create toxins that might make shellfish unsafe to eat, and it’s designed to help high school teachers and students learn about the health risks of eating shellfish and how farming practices can affect seafood safety in coastal communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Coastal Marine Biolabs NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ventura, United States) |
| Project start | December 9, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $125,652 |
| NIH project number | 5R25ES034928-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954251 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include high school students and teachers from coastal communities interested in marine biology and public health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in coastal areas or are not involved in educational settings related to marine sciences may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between marine biotoxins produced by microalgae and the safety of commercially farmed shellfish. It aims to educate high school teachers and students about the potential health risks associated with consuming shellfish that may contain these toxins. The project involves hands-on experiences and data analysis to better understand how aquaculture practices can impact public health. By focusing on coastal communities, it seeks to enhance awareness and safety measures related to seafood consumption.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health safety measures regarding shellfish consumption.
How similar studies have gone: Similar educational initiatives have shown success in enhancing public awareness and safety regarding marine resources, indicating a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
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Coastal Marine Biolabs
Ventura, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Imondi, Ralph — Coastal Marine Biolabs
- Study coordinator: Imondi, Ralph
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.