Project Summary (2005-2008)

The University of Kentucky Basic Superfund Research Program is focused on the environmental health impacts of chlorinated organics—with a more specific focus on PCBs and TCE. The Program includes five separate biomedical research projects investigating the biochemical and cellular mechanisms associated with exposure to such chemicals as well as the associated impacts on such diseases as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. One of the unique aspects of this research program is investigation of the role of nutrition in mitigating the impacts associated with such exposures. In addition, separate projects are examining the use of nanotechnologies and biosensors in detecting such chemicals in the environment and exploring novel techniques for remediation, with a particular focus on groundwater contaminated by TCE. The latter project has a specific potential for application as a result of ongoing remediation studies associated with the Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Paducah, Kentucky. The Research Translation translates the Program research to five targeted audiences: Government, Industry, Broad Audiences, Health Professionals, and Academia. Specific goals are summarized as follows:

1. Communicate important research outcomes to appropriate audiences to ensure the accurate and timely use of the data generated by individual research projects.
2. Develop and implement a mechanism for receiving feedback from the designated target audiences so as to confirm the utility and appropriateness of the communication tools selected.
3. Ensure that research results are being appropriately applied to immediate environmental and health issues through the use of partnerships and other communication tools.