How social stress affects COPD through epigenetics
The role of epigenetics in the adverse effects of social environmental stressors on COPD outcomes
This study is looking at how stress from social situations affects the health of people with COPD, especially those in low-income communities, to see if it changes their DNA and worsens their symptoms, with the hope of finding new ways to help them feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11011499 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of social environmental stressors on the health outcomes of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly focusing on how these stressors may influence biological aging through epigenetic changes. The study aims to understand the relationship between DNA methylation and COPD symptoms, especially in low-income populations who are disproportionately affected by the disease. By examining these connections, the research seeks to identify potential biological mechanisms that could be targeted for new treatment strategies. The approach involves rigorous analysis of epigenetic data in relation to social stress exposure and COPD outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with COPD, especially those experiencing significant social stress and from low-income communities.
Not a fit: Patients with COPD who do not experience social stressors or those who are not from low-income backgrounds may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve the quality of life and health outcomes for COPD patients, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.
How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence linking epigenetics and social stress to health outcomes, this specific approach has not been rigorously tested in the context of COPD, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ladd-Acosta, Christine — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ladd-Acosta, Christine
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.