Impact of airborne pollution on lung health in veterans

Microbial Dysbiosis Among Veterans Following Deployment-Related Airborne Exposures

NIH-funded research Minneapolis VA Medical Center · NIH-10980523

This study is looking at how air pollution affects the lung bacteria of veterans who served in southwest Asia, to see if there’s a connection between these bacteria and breathing problems like coughing and wheezing.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMinneapolis VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10980523 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to fine particulate matter from airborne pollution affects the lung microbiota of veterans who served in southwest Asia. It focuses on understanding the relationship between this exposure and chronic respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. By analyzing the lung microbiota, the study aims to uncover potential links between microbial imbalances and inflammation in the airways. Veterans who have experienced these airborne exposures may provide valuable insights into the health impacts of such environmental factors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have deployed to southwest Asia and are experiencing respiratory symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been deployed to southwest Asia or do not have respiratory issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for respiratory conditions in veterans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that airborne particulate matter can disrupt microbiota, suggesting that this approach may yield significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.