Investigating how alcohol exposure affects lung infections
Official title: The Exposome and Lung Bacterial Infection: Role of Liver and Gut-derived Extracellular Vesicles
Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11014452 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drinking too much alcohol might increase the risk of lung infections like pneumonia in older adults, and it wants to find out how different environmental factors affect lung health in people who struggle with alcohol use, so we can better support their health and care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | February 28, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $241,761 |
| NIH project number | 5P50AA030407-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014452 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol misuse, particularly those who are older and may have pre-existing lung conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not misuse alcohol or have no history of lung infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between alcohol misuse and the risk of bacterial pneumonia, particularly in older adults. It aims to understand how various environmental factors, collectively known as the exposome, influence lung health in individuals with alcohol use disorders. The study will examine how alcohol affects lung function and the immune response, focusing on the role of liver and gut-derived extracellular vesicles. By identifying the unique needs of patients with alcohol misuse, the research seeks to improve clinical care and outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for pneumonia in individuals with alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a link between alcohol misuse and lung health issues, suggesting that this investigation builds on established findings but explores new dimensions of the problem.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wyatt, Todd a — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Wyatt, Todd a
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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.