Investigating how immune cells in the lungs contribute to respiratory issues in Gulf War veterans
Official title: Alveolar macrophage dysregulation in the pathogenesis of Gulf War respiratory illness
Funded at VA Western New York Healthcare System · NIH-10975945 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the lungs of Gulf War veterans might be affecting their breathing problems and inflammation, hoping to find out more about what causes these issues so that we can better understand and help those who served.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Western New York Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Buffalo, United States) |
| Project start | October 1, 2022 |
| Project end | September 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01CX002521-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975945 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Gulf War veterans experiencing chronic respiratory symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of Gulf War service or who do not exhibit respiratory symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of alveolar macrophages, a type of immune cell in the lungs, in the respiratory illnesses experienced by Gulf War veterans. It aims to explore how these cells interact with the airway microbiome and contribute to chronic inflammation and respiratory symptoms. By examining the dysfunction of these immune cells, the research seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of Gulf War respiratory illness, which has been largely overlooked in previous studies. The approach includes analyzing lung samples and assessing immune responses to better understand the pathogenesis of these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for respiratory illnesses affecting Gulf War veterans.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on Gulf War respiratory illness is novel, previous research has shown that understanding immune cell dysfunction can lead to breakthroughs in treating other inflammatory lung diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Western New York Healthcare System
Buffalo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Berenson, Charles S — VA Western New York Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Berenson, Charles S
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.