Investigating the health effects of nanoplastics from plastic waste
Synthesis of Environmentally Relevant Nanoplastics and their Toxicological Consequences Mediated by Environmental Pollutants and Biomolecule Adsorption
['FUNDING_R21'] · PURDUE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11055675
This study is looking at how tiny bits of plastic, which come from broken-down plastic waste, might affect our health when they get into our bodies through eating, breathing, or skin contact, so we can better understand the risks they pose to everyone.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | PURDUE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11055675 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how micro- and nanoplastics, which are tiny particles resulting from the breakdown of plastic waste, affect human health. The study will explore how these particles interact with biological systems and their potential toxicity when they enter the body through various routes such as ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. By creating environmentally relevant nanoplastics from common plastic waste, the research aims to assess their effects on human cells and tissues using advanced laboratory techniques. This approach will help clarify the health risks associated with exposure to these ubiquitous pollutants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to environments with high levels of plastic pollution or those concerned about the health impacts of micro- and nanoplastics.
Not a fit: Patients who are not exposed to plastic pollution or who do not have health concerns related to environmental toxins may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of health risks posed by nanoplastics, ultimately informing public health policies and safety regulations.
How similar studies have performed: While research on microplastics is emerging, this specific approach to studying environmentally relevant nanoplastics is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES
- PURDUE UNIVERSITY — WEST LAFAYETTE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHANNAHAN, JONATHAN HENRY — PURDUE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SHANNAHAN, JONATHAN HENRY
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.