How PFAS precursor chemicals increase exposure near contaminated sites
Assessing the Contribution of Polyfluoroalkyl Precursors to Diverse PFAS Exposures near Contaminated Sites
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND · NIH-11123453
This project looks at how precursor chemicals lead to more PFAS pollution around contaminated Superfund sites and what that means for people living nearby.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (KINGSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11123453 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you live near a PFAS-contaminated site, this project studies where PFAS and their precursor chemicals are coming from and how they move through air, water, and fish. The team uses new environmental measurements and lab tests plus statistical and mechanistic tools to close gaps in what is being released and where it goes. Researchers link engineering measurements with biomedical work so exposure results can inform health studies and cleanup planning. The work focuses on precursors that break down into long-lasting PFAS and on atmospheric deposition as an important transport route.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who live, work, recreate, or fish near PFAS-contaminated Superfund or similar sites—including families with young children—are the most likely candidates to take part or benefit.
Not a fit: People who do not live near contaminated sites or have no concern about PFAS exposure may not see direct benefits from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could pinpoint major exposure sources and help guide cleanup or behavior changes to lower people's PFAS exposures.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have mostly targeted a few PFAS in drinking water, so this project expands to precursor chemicals and air pathways using new measurement and statistical methods.
Where this research is happening
KINGSTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND — KINGSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SUNDERLAND, ELSIE MARECA — UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND
- Study coordinator: SUNDERLAND, ELSIE MARECA
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.