NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

How estrogen affects lung inflammation caused by ozone exposure

Official title: Estrogen receptor signaling, inflammation and ozone toxicity

Funded at University of Connecticut Storrs · NIH-11082284 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at how certain immune cells in the lungs react to ozone and how estrogen affects this reaction, with the goal of finding better treatments for lung problems caused by ozone, especially for kids and older adults.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Connecticut Storrs
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States)
Project startMay 1, 2023
Project endApril 30, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$247,765
NIH project number5R00ES032473-05
Project IDNIH-11082284 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include children under 11 years old and older adults who are exposed to high levels of air pollution.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to lung inflammation or those not exposed to ozone pollution may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how different types of immune cells in the lungs, specifically macrophages, respond to ozone exposure and how estrogen influences this response. It focuses on understanding the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory macrophages, which is crucial for resolving lung inflammation. By examining the metabolic processes involved in these immune responses, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for ozone-related lung issues, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing lung inflammation and protecting against ozone toxicity, particularly for sensitive groups.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune responses in lung inflammation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Connecticut Storrs
    Storrs-Mansfield, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Smith, Ley C — University of Connecticut Storrs
  • Study coordinator: Smith, Ley C

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.