Investigating how tungsten exposure affects heart health

Defining the Role of IL-1? in Tungsten-Mediated Cardiovascular Disease

NIH-funded research University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-10810116

This study is looking at how breathing in tiny tungsten particles might affect heart health, especially for people who work in environments where they might be exposed to these particles, and it will help us understand how this exposure can lead to heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project IDNIH-10810116 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of inhaling tungsten particles on cardiovascular health, particularly in individuals exposed in occupational settings. It aims to understand the mechanisms by which tungsten contributes to heart disease, focusing on the inflammatory responses triggered by this exposure. The study will utilize animal models to assess the effects of tungsten inhalation on lung and heart health, measuring inflammation and other cardiovascular risk factors over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with occupational exposure to tungsten, such as workers in heavy metal manufacturing or military personnel.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to tungsten or similar environmental contaminants may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for cardiovascular diseases linked to environmental contaminants like tungsten.

How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence linking tungsten exposure to cardiovascular issues, this research represents a novel approach to systematically investigate the underlying mechanisms.

Where this research is happening

Albuquerque, 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.