Investigating the effects of ciguatera fish poisoning on health
Official title: Greater Caribbean Center for Ciguatera Research
Funded at Florida Gulf Coast University · NIH-10443681 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how toxins from certain reef fish can make people sick with ciguatera fish poisoning, especially causing muscle pain and other symptoms, and it invites patients to share their experiences to help us understand this issue better, especially as it relates to climate change.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida Gulf Coast University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Myers, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2018 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $458,788 |
| NIH project number | 5P01ES028949-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10443681 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals who have experienced symptoms of ciguatera fish poisoning or live in areas where CFP is prevalent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not consume reef fish or live in regions unaffected by ciguatera fish poisoning may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP), a common seafood illness caused by consuming contaminated reef fish. The study examines how toxins from the dinoflagellate genus Gambierdiscus enter the food web and affect human health, particularly through muscle pain and neurological symptoms. By understanding the bioaccumulation of these toxins in fish and their impact on consumers, the research aims to provide insights into the increasing prevalence of CFP due to climate change. Patients may be involved in reporting symptoms and contributing to data collection on the effects of CFP.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of ciguatera fish poisoning, improving patient outcomes and public health safety.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the ecological and biological factors of ciguatera fish poisoning can lead to effective public health strategies, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parsons, Michael — Florida Gulf Coast University
- Study coordinator: Parsons, Michael
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.