Using light to remove arsenic and uranium from drinking water

Light-Based Approaches to Effective and Sustainable Removal of Arsenic and Uranium from Drinking Water Sources

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10877762

This study is working on a new way to clean drinking water using light to remove harmful substances like arsenic and uranium, especially for people living in tribal areas of North and South Dakota who often have to use untreated water.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10877762 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative filtration systems that utilize light to effectively remove harmful contaminants, specifically arsenic and uranium, from drinking water sources. The project aims to address the high levels of these toxins found in groundwater, particularly in tribal lands of North and South Dakota, where residents often rely on untreated water. By employing a photosynthetic microbial battery, the research seeks to enhance the removal of these contaminants through a novel oxidation and reduction process. This approach not only improves water safety but also aims to reduce the associated health risks, particularly cardiometabolic diseases prevalent in affected communities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas with known high levels of arsenic and uranium in their drinking water, particularly in tribal communities.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in areas affected by arsenic and uranium contamination may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve drinking water quality and reduce health risks for communities exposed to arsenic and uranium.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using innovative filtration techniques for water treatment, making this approach a potentially viable solution.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cardiometabolic Disease, Cardiometabolic Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.