How sex hormones affect asthma differences between men and women

Gonadal hormones as mediators of sex and gender influences in asthma

NIH-funded research Trustees of Indiana University · NIH-10891526

This study is looking at how hormones, especially those related to gender, affect asthma symptoms and severity, aiming to find better treatments for women and trans women who experience more asthma issues than men.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTrustees of Indiana University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bloomington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10891526 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of gonadal hormones in influencing asthma symptoms and severity, particularly focusing on how these hormones differ between sexes. It aims to understand the mechanisms by which female sex hormones, such as estrogens, may contribute to increased asthma prevalence and exacerbations in women compared to men. The study will utilize experimental models to explore the effects of these hormones on lung inflammation and airway reactivity in both males and females, including the impact of hormone therapy in trans women. By examining these factors, the research seeks to uncover potential new treatment strategies tailored to gender-specific asthma responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include adult women and trans women experiencing asthma symptoms, particularly those with severe or uncontrolled asthma.

Not a fit: Patients with asthma who are male or those who do not have a hormonal component to their asthma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, gender-specific treatments for asthma, improving outcomes for patients affected by this condition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in understanding sex differences in asthma, but this specific approach focusing on hormonal influences is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Bloomington, 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.