University of Kentucky SRP research efforts focus on the idea that nutrition can positively impact the negative human health effects related to chemical exposures near Superfund sites, thereby improving health and disease outcomes associated with such exposures. The UK-SRP focuses on the health impacts of exposure to different chlorinated organic compounds, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and trichloroethylene (TCE) -- both of which are prevalent at Superfund sites in Kentucky and nationwide.

SRP funding supports five projects (three biomedical projects and two non-biomedical projects). The biomedical projects focus on such common diseases in Kentucky as cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, and hypertension. Since pollutant compounds dissolve in fat, fatty foods usually contain higher levels of persistent organics, such as PCBs, than do vegetable matter. Once absorbed, PCBs spread to body tissues. UK-SRP researchers believe that nutritional choices can reduce oxidative stress and improve antioxidant status, thus positively impacting the human effects of Superfund pollutants.

The UK-SRP non-biomedical projects investigate new techniques to detect Superfund chemicals and to minimize or remove them from the environment. In conjunction with ongoing research activities, the UK-SRP engages communities near Superfund sites through its Community Outreach and Research Translation Cores. In addition, the UK-SRP Training Core provides support and experience for graduate and postdoctoral scholars working in fields related to chemical toxicity and environmental pollutants.

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