Episodes
-
Prenatal Benzene Exposure Disrupts Immune Defenses During Early Development
Scientists funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program discovered that exposure to benzene during pregnancy, even at low levels, may alter how a child's immune system develops. The research team, led by Gil Mor, Tracie Baker, and Jennifer Straughen, of the Wayne State University SRP Center,...
-
Zebrafish Model Reveals PCB Byproducts Trigger Developmental Toxicity
Scientists funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program, or SRP, discovered that, as PCBs are metabolized in the body, they trigger unique neurobehavioral and structural abnormalities. The study was led by Nicole Breese, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Iowa SRP Center....
-
Glazing Technique Improves 1,4-Dioxane Destruction
Scientists funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) developed a new strategy to effectively break down stubborn chemicals in water. Researchers at the Yale University SRP Center, led by Jaehong Kim, Ph.D., used advanced engineering approaches to create a stable and reusable material...
-
Disentangling Relationships Between Arsenic and the Gut Microbiome
Using an innovative method to simulate the gastrointestinal (GI) system, an NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded study revealed the interplay between arsenic exposure and the gut microbiome. The scientists assessed how arsenic alters the microbiome and how much arsenic can be dissolved...
-
Age-Dependent Effects of NDMA Exposure Show Unique Susceptibility of Juvenile Mice
A study in mice funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) reported that juvenile mice may be more susceptible to the damaging effects of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) exposure than adult mice. Experiments that artificially increased cell growth and division also show that…
more -
Dual-Action Bioaugmented Sorbents Optimize Groundwater Cleanup
A new study may help improve cleanup strategies for groundwater and sediment contaminated with persistent chlorinated organic pollutants. Funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program, researchers at the University of Maryland Baltimore County used modeling tools to better understand and…
more -
Linking Early-Life Lead Exposure with Cognitive Function Later in Life
People with higher lead exposure before birth may have lower cognitive function in late adulthood, according to researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health Superfund Research Program (SRP) Center. This finding was most significant for women exposed to lead during the second trimester.
-
New Tool Targets Complex Groundwater Pollutants
Researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program developed a new biocatalyst technology to clean up chlorinated hydrocarbons, or CHCs, a large class of persistent groundwater pollutants.
-
Building Better Models to Study Air Pollution and Lung Health
SRP Researchers developed an advanced cell culture model that better represents the human lung.
-
Improving Chemical Cleanup of Contaminated Groundwater
SRP Researchers uncovered how underground conditions influence the success of chemical oxidation-based groundwater cleanup.
-
Urine Test May Detect Uranium Build Up Before Irreversible Injury
Uranium exposure leaves a fingerprint in the body that could help identify kidney damage before it becomes irreversible, according to an NIEHS SRP-funded study in mice.
-
Nanoparticles Help Plants Clean Up “Forever Chemicals”
Scientists funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program developed a novel material that enhances the ability of plants to remove PFAS from soil and water.
-
Dioxin-Like Compounds Shift the Balance of White Blood Cells
Dioxin-like compounds can alter how white blood cells develop and do so in ways that current risk assessment methods fail to predict, according to a study from the Michigan State University Superfund Research Program Center.
-
Demonstrating a Pilot System to Electrochemically Remediate Groundwater
Researchers partially funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) designed a scaled-up electrochemical system that combines electricity with the mineral pyrite, a mineral commonly found in the environment, to continuously remove organic and heavy metal contaminants from groundwater for a...
-
Mechanism Linking Preconception Arsenic Exposure and Diabetes in Offspring Revealed
Exposure to inorganic arsenic before conception can trigger changes in gene activity that are passed down to offspring and increase their risk of developing diabetes, according to a study in mice funded by an NIEHS individual research grant and by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program. These...
-
Machine Learning Creates More Complete Picture of Groundwater Contamination
Machine learning algorithms can fill gaps in sparse or incomplete groundwater datasets, according to researchers partially funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program. The study tested the ability of two algorithms to help scientists analyze co-occurring pollutants in groundwater by filling in...
-
Using a New Model to Identify Health-Impacting Metal Mixtures
Researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program, or SRP, developed the linear mixed-effects model – abbreviated as LMM – a framework for statistical analysis, to quickly and effectively estimate the effects of individual metals and metal mixtures on zebrafish larvae behaviors.
-
Machine Learning Predicts Efficiency of Micropollutant Removal
Scientists at the NIEHS-funded North Carolina State University Superfund Research Program Center created machine learning models that can help predict how well granular activated carbon can clean up contaminated water. With his student Yoko Koyama, Detlef Knappe, Ph.D., developed models that...
-
Model Predicts PFAS Buildup in Wild Animals
Researchers funded by the NIEHS SRP developed a model that predicts how PFAS move and build up within food webs. The model lays the groundwork for screening the thousands of PFAS compounds that could potentially pose a risk for ecological or human health. PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in...
-
Combining Plants and Sunlight to Break Down Hazardous Compounds
Researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program designed a new material that effectively degrades harmful compounds, like PFAS, and bacteria. By combining the power of sunlight and a component of plants, called lignin, this approach harnesses sustainable and renewable resources to…
more -
User-friendly Technology Detects NDMA in Water
A new technology, developed by researchers at the NIEHS-funded Massachusetts Institute of Technology Superfund Research Program Center, can detect the contaminant N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in water. This breakthrough tool offers a quick way to monitor NDMA by triggering a visible color change...
-
Passive Samplers Track PFAS, Show Contamination Reduction in Cape Fear River
Common low-cost samplers may be an effective technology for tracking PFAS levels in aquatic environments, according to a study funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP). The research team found that frequently used passive sampling devices, which collect samples over time, can monitor...
-
Early Life Exposures May Shape Infant Immune System
Exposure to certain chemicals during early pregnancy may influence how a baby’s immune system develops, according to a study partly funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP). The scientists discovered that some per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and metals may alter how an...
-
Pyrite Improves Electrochemical System for Removing a Chemical Mixture
Adding a common mineral, pyrite, to an electrochemical system can simultaneously remove organic and heavy metal contaminants from groundwater, according to a study funded in part by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP). Led by Akram Alshawabkeh, Ph.D., researchers at the Northeastern...
-
Environmental Factors Alter PFAS Removal by Specialized Nanomaterials
Researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) revealed how characteristics of water treatment systems may alter the ability of novel nanomaterials to remove PFAS. Scientists should be aware of factors like water pH ' a measure of acidic or basic conditions ' or salt level to...
-
High Seafood Diet May Lead to Increased PFAS Exposure
A study funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) found that consuming some types of commercial seafood in high quantities may increase the risk of PFAS exposure. Led by Celia Chen, Ph.D., Kate Crawford, Ph.D., and Megan Romano, Ph.D., at Dartmouth College, the research team believes...
-
Engineering Hydrogel Beads to Enhance Bioremediation of Groundwater Contaminant
Oregon State University scientists and engineers developed an approach to cleaning polluted groundwater that uses tiny beads containing chemical-eating bacteria. In this study, funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP), the team identified a formula to maximize bead durability and...
-
Tracking Mercury Conversion and Distribution in Aquatic Environments
NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded researchers, led by Heileen Hsu-Kim, Ph.D., of the Duke University SRP Center, provided insight into how and at what timescale mercury changes within a wetland ecosystem. They found mercury from different sources is converted into other mercury forms...
-
Using Earth Materials to Remove Metals Near Abandoned Mines
NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded researchers developed a new strategy that uses limestone and a naturally occurring mineral to clean up water contaminated with arsenic and uranium — two of the most frequently detected drinking water pollutants in Tribal communities.
-
New Model Estimates the Effects of Dioxin on Liver Cholesterol
Scientists funded partly by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) developed a computer model to determine the health effects of exposure to dioxins. Researchers use the model to combine data on exposures and on known health outcomes to assess the overall risk chemicals could pose to…
more -
Mapping Microbe Interactions That Support PCB-Degrading Bacteria
Researchers partially funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) mapped interactions between microbes that may support the growth of certain bacteria that degrade polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a harmful contaminant. By harnessing those microbial relationships, researchers could...
-
Environmentally Persistent Free Radicals, PAHs Interact to Increase Toxicity of Particulate Mixtures
Toxic air pollutants called environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs) may react with certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on the surface of airborne particles to form more toxic chemicals, according to researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP). The study,...
-
High-Temperature Biochar for Arsenic Remediation
Adding biochar produced at a high temperature may be an effective way to immobilize arsenic in sediment, according to researchers partially funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP). The study, led by Owen Duckworth, Ph.D., of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill SRP Center,...
-
Mechanism of Cadmium-induced Neurotoxicity, Potential Treatment Revealed
A particular class of extracellular vesicles protects against neurotoxicity caused by cadmium exposure, according to an NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded study. Extracellular vesicles are small packages of fats, nucleic acids, or proteins that allow cells to communicate with each…
more -
Modified Iron Particles Could Improve Bioremediation of PFAS
Iron particles coated in a nontoxic material may enhance PFAS degradation by a certain bacterium, according to researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program. The study could inform bioremediation efforts that harness the microbe, known as Acidimicrobium Strain A6, for cleaning up...
-
Benzene Exposure During Pregnancy Affects Later-Life Metabolic Health
Prenatal exposure to the air pollutant benzene may lead to a higher risk of metabolic diseases later in life, according to a study in mice partially funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP). Benzene affects neurodevelopment, predisposing offspring to harmful metabolic effects…
more -
Cadmium-Linked Inflammation Increases the Severity of Lung Infection
Researchers funded in part by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) uncovered a key mechanism explaining how inflammation caused by cadmium exposure makes lung infections more severe and deadly.
-
Exposure to PCBs During Nursing Leads to Temporary Diabetes-Related Health Effect
Exposure to synthetic chemicals called polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) through a mother's milk could cause short-term glucose intolerance in offspring, according to a study by researchers from the University of Kentucky (UK) and funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP). Intolerance…
more -
Fighting Fluorine with Fluorine: New Materials Remove PFAS from Groundwater
Researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) created a novel class of materials that can attract and remove per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water. According to the authors, the new technology — called Fluor Mop — can be regenerated, reused, and is potentially...
-
Mimicking Molecules Made by Bacteria to Remove Metals From Water
NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded scientists developed a method to extract metals from water using synthetic molecules inspired by those produced by bacteria. The biodegradable molecules, called rhamnolipids, could one day be used to remove toxic metals or extract rare and valuable...
-
New Model Estimates PFAS Exposures From Contaminated Drinking Water
Researchers partially funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) developed a model to estimate individual exposure to four per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) commonly found in drinking water. The model integrates published data from multiple studies on PFAS levels in human blood...
-
Combining Analytical Chemistry and Machine Learning to Detangle Mixtures
NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded researchers demonstrated a significant step toward identifying individual chemical components in complex mixtures. Their approach uses advanced analytical techniques and sophisticated machine learning approaches while overcoming the time-consuming...
-
Dioxin Disrupts Liver Cells in Mice, Potential Link with Liver Disease
An NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded study in mice reported that exposure to a type of dioxin can alter cells in the liver, their metabolic characteristics, and how they are organized within the liver. According to the researchers, these changes in cell behavior and organization play…
more -
Sampling Device Harnesses Powerful Molecular Interactions, Overcomes Barriers in Detecting Volatile Contaminants
A NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded study showed how unique microsensors that harness powerful molecular interactions can selectively detect trace amounts of aromatic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the environment.
-
PFAS Exposure Associated with Elevated Cholesterol in North Carolina Community
NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP)-funded researchers found that elevated levels of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the blood of participants of the GenX Exposure Study were associated with higher cholesterol. Led by Jane Hoppin, ScD., of the North Carolina State University SRP...
-
Combining Arsenic Data Across Populations Sheds Light on Exposure Sources
By combining data across three different populations, NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) researchers were able to better characterize sources of arsenic exposure that should be included in risk assessments. The study was a collaboration among the University of California (UC), Berkeley,...
-
Improving How Microbes Break Down PFAS
NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) grantees demonstrated a method to break down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into smaller, non-toxic molecules. Led by Yujie Men, Ph.D., of the University of California, Riverside, the team also showed that some types of PFAS can be more easily...
-
Emerging PFAS Can Cause Changes in Gene Expression and Lipid Accumulation in Human Liver Cells
New types of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can induce significant increases in gene expression and lipid accumulation in human liver cells at lower concentrations compared to PFAS no longer in use, according to researchers funded by the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP).
-
Study Sheds Light on Breakdown Products of PCBs in the Environment
NIEHS Superfund Research program (SRP) grantees discovered toxic breakdown products of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in contaminated sediments at proportionally higher levels than found in commercial PCB mixtures.
-
Protein Provides Insight into Respiratory Toxicity of Cadmium
A protein called fibrinogen can be an indicator of cadmium exposure in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to a study led by Veena Antony, M.D., director of the NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) Center at the University of Alabama, Birmingham.