Multiplexed nuclear receptor bioassays to monitor drinking water for contaminants
Official title: Multiplexed Nuclear Receptor BioAssay platform to inexpensively and broadly survey the nation's water supply for contamination by endocrine disrupting chemicals
Funded at Xcellassay, INC. · NIH-11407237 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new, cost-effective set of tests checks drinking water for many potential contaminants to protect public health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Xcellassay, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | March 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,135,244 |
| NIH project number | 2R44ES036049-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11407237 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal for communities and individuals who rely on public drinking water and want stronger protection from chemical contaminants.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals in areas with already robust testing programs might see less immediate impact.
What this research studies
This project builds on a proven bioassay platform to screen water samples using many bar-coded tests at once, making it faster and cheaper to detect harmful chemicals. It focuses on California water districts first, with plans to expand nationwide and globally. The approach aims to improve accuracy and reduce costs so communities can routinely monitor a broader range of contaminants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to more comprehensive and affordable water testing, helping keep drinking water safer for people.
How similar studies have gone: Previous Phase I work showed multiplexed BioAssays can be more sensitive and cost-effective than single assays, suggesting promise for Phase II.
Where this research is happening
-
Xcellassay, INC.
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schaufele, Fred J — Xcellassay, INC.
- Study coordinator: Schaufele, Fred J
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.