Investigating the effects of climate change on ciguatera poisoning in the Caribbean
Greater Caribbean Center for Ciguatera Research
This study is looking into how climate change might make ciguatera poisoning, which comes from eating certain reef fish, more common in the Greater Caribbean, so we can better understand the health risks and help educate communities about staying safe.
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 ID | NIH-10909666 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding ciguatera poisoning, a prevalent illness caused by consuming reef fish contaminated with toxins from certain algae. The study aims to explore how climate change may increase the occurrence and spread of ciguatera poisoning in the Greater Caribbean region. Researchers will analyze the toxic compounds produced by specific algae and their effects on marine food webs and human health. By examining these factors, the research seeks to provide insights into the health risks associated with ciguatera poisoning and inform community health education efforts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals living in or visiting the Greater Caribbean region who consume reef fish.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume reef fish or live outside the affected geographic areas may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health strategies and educational resources to prevent ciguatera poisoning.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding harmful algal blooms and their impacts on human health, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific inquiry.
Where this research is happening
Fort Myers, United States
- 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 below.