Investigating how GLP-1R agonists can help treat asthma in lean and obese patients
Official title: GLP-1R agonist immune targets in lean and obesity-associated asthma
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10856599 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a type of medication already used for diabetes and weight loss can also help people with asthma by reducing inflammation in their airways, and it will involve patients to see how well it works for easing asthma symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $746,134 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI182159-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10856599 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with asthma, particularly those who are lean or obese.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with asthma who do not have a lean or obese body type may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists, which are already approved for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity, as a new treatment for asthma. The study aims to uncover the specific immune mechanisms through which these agents reduce airway inflammation, particularly in both lean and obese individuals. By examining how GLP-1R signaling affects immune cell function, the research seeks to enhance the clinical application of these medications for asthma management. Patients may be involved in trials that assess the effectiveness of GLP-1R agonists in alleviating asthma symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for asthma patients, improving their quality of life and reducing inflammation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using GLP-1R agonists for asthma treatment, indicating a potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cahill, Katherine N — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Cahill, Katherine N
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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GLP-1 receptor agonists as immune targets to treat asthma in lean and obese adults
Aims to understand how GLP-1R‑agonist diabetes medicines may directly calm immune cells to reduce asthma in adults who are lean or obese.
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Semaglutide for adults with obesity-related asthma
This trial gives adults with obesity-related asthma a daily oral semaglutide pill to test whether it improves asthma control and lowers airway and fat-tissue inflammation.
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GLP-1R drugs as a new approach for asthma in different body types
Researchers are testing whether popular diabetes drugs that activate GLP-1 receptors can reduce airway inflammation and help adults with asthma, including those who are lean or overweight.
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How high insulin in obesity may make airways tighten in asthma
This project looks at whether the higher insulin that comes with obesity makes airway nerves cause tighter breathing in people with obesity-related asthma.
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Understanding how GLP-1 medicines help with asthma in people who are lean or have obesity
This project aims to discover how existing GLP-1 medicines, used for diabetes and obesity, can also help reduce inflammation in people with asthma.
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Investigating a new treatment for asthma in adults with obesity
This study is looking at how a medication called GLP-1RA might help adults with asthma related to obesity by improving their breathing and reducing inflammation, and if you join, you'll take either the medication or a placebo for 12 weeks to see how it works for you.
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.