Investigating harmful toxins from blue-green algae in the Great Lakes
Official title: Synthesis and quantitation of microcystins and anabaenopeptins in the Great Lakes region to establish human exposure risks via ingestion and inhalation
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-11020371 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into the dangers of harmful algae in the Great Lakes and how the toxins they produce can affect our health, especially if we breathe them in or swallow them, so we can find better ways to track and manage these risks for everyone’s safety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | June 22, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $139,586 |
| NIH project number | 3R01ES034017-01A1S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11020371 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in or near the Great Lakes region who may be exposed to contaminated water or seafood.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in the Great Lakes region or who have no exposure to blue-green algae toxins may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the risks posed by harmful algal blooms in the Great Lakes, particularly the toxins they produce. By synthesizing and quantifying specific toxins, the study aims to establish how these toxins can enter the human body through ingestion and inhalation. The researchers will develop reliable methods to identify and measure these toxins, which are linked to various health issues, including liver and gastrointestinal diseases. The ultimate goal is to create certified reference materials that can help monitor and mitigate the health impacts of these toxins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health measures and safety guidelines regarding exposure to harmful algal blooms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying and quantifying cyanotoxins, but this study aims to enhance the methods and materials available for monitoring these toxins.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Westrick, Judy a — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Westrick, Judy a
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.