How inhaled nanoparticles worsen inflammation in people with metabolic syndrome
Compromised Resolution of Inflammation following Nanoparticle Exposure in Metabolic Syndrome
This project looks at how breathing tiny airborne particles affects inflammation and its natural resolution in people with metabolic syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11254906 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work focuses on why people with metabolic syndrome have stronger and longer lung inflammation after inhaling very small particles. The team will use controlled inhalation exposures in laboratory models and analyze lung and airway fluids to measure inflammatory signals and specialized pro-resolving mediators. They will also examine how nanoparticles pick up biological coatings (biocoronas) and how metabolic syndrome changes omega-3 fatty acid metabolism that helps turn off inflammation. The goal is to understand the mechanism so future treatments or prevention strategies can restore normal inflammatory resolution.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with metabolic syndrome or related conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes are the most relevant group for this work.
Not a fit: People without metabolic syndrome or those with unrelated medical conditions are less likely to receive direct benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to ways to reduce prolonged pollution-driven inflammation in people with metabolic syndrome and guide new prevention or treatment approaches.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and lab studies show air pollution can worsen inflammation and that enhancing pro-resolving mediators may help, but applying these ideas to nanoparticle exposure in metabolic syndrome is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
West Lafayette, United States
- Purdue University — West Lafayette, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shannahan, Jonathan Henry — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Shannahan, Jonathan Henry
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.