Improving the breakdown of harmful chemicals using special bacteria and surfaces
Official title: Leveraging the chemo-physical interaction of halorespiring bacteria with solid surfaces to enhance halogenated organic compounds bioremediation
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore County · NIH-11001547 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain helpful bacteria can clean up harmful chemicals in the environment by working better with specific surfaces, which could lead to improved ways to clean up polluted water and soil, especially in places that need extra help like Superfund sites.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore County NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 10, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $150,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES032719-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001547 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living near contaminated sites, particularly those affected by chlorinated organic compounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in proximity to contaminated environments or who are not affected by chlorinated organic pollutants may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain bacteria can effectively break down chlorinated organic compounds, which are harmful pollutants, when they interact with specific solid surfaces. The team will conduct laboratory and field studies to understand the mechanisms behind this interaction and develop models to enhance bioremediation techniques. By optimizing the use of sorptive materials, the research aims to improve the delivery of bioamendments in contaminated groundwater and sediments. This could lead to more effective cleanup strategies for pollutants found at Superfund sites.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more efficient methods for cleaning up hazardous chemical pollutants in the environment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using similar approaches to enhance bioremediation, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore County
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghosh, Upal — University of Maryland Baltimore County
- Study coordinator: Ghosh, Upal
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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.