Investigating how lung immune cells are affected by toxins in veterans

The Role of Macrophages in Deployment-related Lung Disease in OEF/OIF/OND Veterans

NIH-funded research Veterans Health Administration · NIH-11052178

This study is looking at how harmful substances that veterans might encounter during military service affect their lung health, especially the immune cells that help protect their lungs, and it aims to find better ways to diagnose and treat lung diseases related to their service.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11052178 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how exposure to harmful substances during military deployment affects lung immune cells, specifically macrophages, in veterans. It aims to identify the specific toxins that contribute to lung diseases and how these immune cells become dysfunctional over time. By studying these changes, the research seeks to develop better diagnostic criteria and potential therapies for veterans suffering from deployment-related lung disease. The approach includes analyzing lung tissue samples and testing targeted treatments in preclinical models.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced deployment-related respiratory exposures and are exhibiting symptoms of lung disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not served in the military or those without deployment-related respiratory symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for veterans suffering from chronic lung diseases related to their military service.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in lung diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.