Investigating how tiny particles in the air affect lung inflammation through cell communication
Official title: The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Pulmonary Inflammation
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11075819 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breathing in tiny particles from air pollution can cause lung inflammation, and it’s trying to find out if certain small particles released by lung cells can help reduce that inflammation, which could lead to better treatments for lung problems caused by pollution.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | April 17, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21ES035983-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075819 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing lung inflammation or related conditions, particularly those exposed to high levels of air pollution.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung conditions unrelated to inflammation or air pollution exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how inhaling fine particles from air pollution can lead to inflammation in the lungs. It focuses on the role of extracellular vesicles, which are small particles released by lung cells that help communicate and regulate inflammation. By analyzing these vesicles and their contents in lung tissue and fluid, the study aims to identify specific types that could help resolve inflammation. This could lead to new treatments for lung injuries caused by air pollution.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that alleviate lung damage caused by air pollution.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of extracellular vesicles in inflammation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Adamcakova-Dodd, Andrea — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Adamcakova-Dodd, Andrea
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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.