How secondhand smoke affects lung cell aging and inflammation

Molecular clock dysfunction in lung cellular senescence by environmental tobacco smoke

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-10555275

This study is looking at how secondhand smoke affects lung cells and makes them age faster, focusing on how it disrupts our body's natural rhythms and causes inflammation, with the hope of finding new ways to protect lung health for people exposed to smoke.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10555275 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), commonly known as secondhand smoke, on lung cells and their aging process. It focuses on how ETS disrupts the body's natural circadian rhythms, leading to cellular senescence and inflammation in the lungs. The study examines the role of specific proteins, such as REV-ERBα and SIRT1, in regulating these processes and how they may contribute to DNA damage and repair mechanisms. By understanding these interactions, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for mitigating the harmful effects of ETS on lung health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals exposed to secondhand smoke, particularly those experiencing respiratory issues or signs of lung inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have exposure to secondhand smoke or related lung conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect lung cells from damage caused by secondhand smoke and improve overall lung health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting molecular clock components can mitigate cellular damage and inflammation, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.
Conditions DiseaseDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.