Early CF airway damage from overactive neutrophils and oxidants
Neutrophil hyperexocytosis and hypochlorous acid exposure in early cystic fibrosis lung disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11233270
This research looks at whether overactive white blood cells release an enzyme and chlorine-like oxidants that harm the airways of people with cystic fibrosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11233270 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will analyze airway and sputum samples from people with cystic fibrosis and run laboratory tests to measure neutrophil release of the enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO) and production of hypochlorous acid (HOCl). They will examine whether MPO associates with extracellular vesicles, which could keep MPO active and resistant to inhibitors. Laboratory models of airway cells will be used to see how HOCl exposure damages airway epithelial cells and could promote early bronchiectasis. The team links these molecular findings to early-stage CF airway disease using human samples and controlled lab experiments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cystic fibrosis, especially those with early lung disease or able to provide airway or sputum samples, would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without cystic fibrosis or those whose lung damage is already advanced and irreversible are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets to reduce early airway inflammation in CF and help slow or prevent bronchiectasis.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research has shown MPO activity in CF airways and links to bronchiectasis, but the idea that MPO on extracellular vesicles sustains harmful HOCl production is a newer direction.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHANDLER, JOSHUA D — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: CHANDLER, JOSHUA D
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 below.