How volcanic ash and certain bacteria affect lung health
Official title: Distinct responses of lung macrophages and airway epithelial cells to Hawai'i-derived volcanic ash and nontuberculous mycobacteria
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler · NIH-10813772 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in your lungs react to volcanic ash and specific bacteria that can cause long-term lung problems, especially in people living in Hawai'i, to help find better ways to prevent and treat these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tyler, United States) |
| Project start | March 22, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $186,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171587-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10813772 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas with high exposure to volcanic ash or those diagnosed with NTM-related pulmonary diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in volcanic regions or who do not have NTM infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how lung macrophages and airway epithelial cells respond to exposure from volcanic ash and nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), which are known to cause chronic lung diseases. The study focuses on understanding the environmental factors in Hawai'i that contribute to NTM infections, particularly the role of volcanic ash from Kīlauea. By analyzing samples from the environment and studying the cellular responses, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these infections and their potential sources. This could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of chronic lung diseases caused by NTM, benefiting patients with these conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While research on NTM is ongoing, the specific investigation of volcanic ash as a potential source of infection is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
Tyler, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Honda, Jennifer R. — University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
- Study coordinator: Honda, Jennifer R.
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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.