How environmental pollutants worsen asthma symptoms

Environmental Pollutants Potentiate Allergic Inflammation via Functional Axis of Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor, ROS, and CaMKII in Asthma

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10843712

This study is looking at how things like diesel exhaust and cockroach allergens can make asthma symptoms worse, especially by affecting certain cells in your body, and it hopes to find new ways to help you breathe easier.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10843712 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to environmental pollutants, particularly diesel exhaust and cockroach allergens, can worsen allergic inflammation in asthma patients. The study focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms involved, particularly the role of mast cells and a receptor known as the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). By examining how these pollutants interact with the immune system, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets that could help manage asthma symptoms more effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with asthma who are also exposed to environmental allergens, particularly those sensitive to cockroach allergens.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have asthma or are not exposed to environmental pollutants may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce asthma symptoms triggered by environmental pollutants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the interactions between environmental pollutants and allergic responses can lead to significant advancements in asthma treatment.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.