Investigating how nasal immunity and microbiome affect COPD flare-ups

The Role of Nasal Mucosal Immunity and Microbiome on the Frequent Exacerbation Phenotype of COPD

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-10829906

This study is looking at how the environment and germs in your nose might affect people with COPD who often have flare-ups, and it aims to find out how your immune system reacts to a flu vaccine to help predict when these flare-ups might happen.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10829906 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of the nasal mucosal environment and microbiome in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), particularly focusing on patients who experience frequent exacerbations. By analyzing the immune responses and microbial communities in the nasal passages, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that contribute to these acute episodes. Participants may undergo assessments involving controlled exposure to a live attenuated influenza vaccine to evaluate their immune responses. The goal is to identify specific immune alterations that could predict the risk of exacerbations in COPD patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, particularly those who experience frequent exacerbations.

Not a fit: Patients with stable COPD who do not experience exacerbations or those with other unrelated respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of COPD, potentially reducing the frequency of exacerbations for patients.

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

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: liability to disease, Disease susceptibility, Pulmonary Diseases, Pulmonary Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.