UAH professor awarded $1.2M grant to study ‘forever chemicals’ – WHNT.com
UAH Professor Secures $1.2 Million Grant to Investigate ‘Forever Chemicals’
A University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) professor has been awarded a substantial $1.2 million grant aimed at exploring the impact of so-called ‘forever chemicals.’ These chemicals, known scientifically as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are notorious for their persistence in the environment and human body, posing significant health risks.
Dr. Tarek L. A. El-Shafey, an assistant professor in the UAH College of Science, will lead the research project supported by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The study focuses on assessing how PFAS interact with biological systems, particularly their potential to cause adverse health effects. The funding will facilitate a multi-faceted approach, incorporating lab experiments and field studies to better understand the environmental distribution and health implications of these hazardous substances.
PFAS have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system disruptions. With their widespread use in industrial applications and consumer products, the urgency for research in this area is critical.
Dr. El-Shafey’s work aims to contribute essential insights into PFAS contamination and its connections to public health. By leveraging advanced research techniques, the project also seeks to propose potential strategies for mitigating exposure to these hazardous compounds, underscoring the importance of addressing this growing environmental and public health concern.
Read the complete article here: https://whnt.com/news/huntsville/uah-professor-dr-yu-lei-awarded-1-2m-grant-to-study-forever-chemicals/