Investigating how airway inflammation and fear interact in the brain

Airway inflammation and fear: neuroimmune mechanisms and forebrain circuits

NIH-funded research University of Cincinnati · NIH-10677767

This study is looking at how inflammation in the airways of people with severe asthma might affect how the brain handles fear, which could help us find new treatments for PTSD and similar issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Cincinnati NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10677767 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between airway inflammation, particularly in severe asthma, and fear regulation in the brain, focusing on how these factors contribute to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study examines the role of the prefrontal cortex and specific immune responses in fear dysregulation, using mouse models to understand the underlying mechanisms. By identifying the biological pathways involved, the research aims to uncover potential new treatments for individuals suffering from PTSD and related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with severe asthma who also experience symptoms of PTSD or fear dysregulation.

Not a fit: Patients without asthma or those who do not experience fear dysregulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for managing PTSD and improving mental health in patients with severe asthma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between inflammation and mental health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, 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 Autoimmune Diseasesautoimmune disorderautoimmunity diseaseMental disordersMental health disorders
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.