Changes in the bacteria in the lungs of adults with asthma and their link to asthma attacks
Official title: Longitudinal changes of the sputum microbiome in adult asthma and its association with asthma exacerbations
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10995294 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in the mucus of adults with asthma change over time and how these changes might be linked to asthma flare-ups, with the goal of helping people manage their asthma better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | December 6, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $188,544 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178627-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995294 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with asthma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have asthma or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacteria present in the sputum of adults with asthma change over time and how these changes relate to asthma exacerbations. By analyzing the bacterial compositions in the airways of asthma patients compared to healthy individuals, the study aims to identify specific microbial alterations that may contribute to worsening asthma symptoms. The approach involves longitudinal monitoring of sputum samples using advanced sequencing techniques to capture the dynamics of the airway microbiome. This could provide insights into the role of bacteria in asthma management and prevention of attacks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing asthma and reducing the frequency of exacerbations in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have shown that changes in airway microbiota are linked to exacerbations, suggesting potential for success in this similar area of asthma research.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krings, James — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Krings, James
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.