Shiv Nadar University researchers say new compound can help contain mercury poisoning

NEW DELHI: Shiv Nadar University has announced the discovery of a compound that can help reverse environmental mercury poisoning by converting the heavy metal from a toxic, volatile and soluble organic form (as a pollutant) into a safer, inert and stable form.

The process takes a few minutes to hours, depending upon the form in which the organic mercury pollutant is present, the university said in a statement issued on Tuesday. The compound, ‘GP1’, was discovered by a team of researchers led by Gouriprasanna Roy, an assistant professor in the department of chemistry, School of Natural Sciences and Shiv Nadar University. "The new compound, GP1, may have immense potential as a preventive against complex neuro-developmental disorders, called autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), and can also fight environmental pollution," Roy said in the press release. "The compound can also be used to make highly toxic and hazardous mercury build-ups in the environment (rivers and ground-water) completely benign and therefore safe for humans and animals." Roy also said he is working on developing another molecule to reverse poisoning due to lead, another heavy metal.

Rupamanjari Ghosh, director, School of Natural Sciences and School of Engineering, said, "Those living in close proximity to regions with a high prevalence of mercury and other heavy metals are at a high risk of developing a range of serious health complications that include neurological disorders, skin problems and ailments of the liver, kidneys and cardio-vascular system. Children are the most at risk."