Investigating how viral infections and autoantibodies affect lung disease progression
Official title: Defining the Role of Viral Infections and Autoantibodies in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Progression
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11139465 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how past viral infections and the body's immune responses might affect the worsening of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by examining blood samples from 3,000 people, to help us understand more about how COPD develops over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 16, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $668,611 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL168663-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139465 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or emphysema.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of COPD or those with other unrelated respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between viral infections, autoimmune responses, and the progression of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). By analyzing blood samples from 3,000 participants in the COPDGene Study, the team will use advanced technology to identify specific antibodies related to past viral infections and autoimmune reactions. The goal is to determine how these factors influence lung function decline over time, providing insights into the mechanisms behind COPD progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of COPD, potentially resulting in better treatment strategies for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a potential link between viral infections and COPD progression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ruczinski, Ingo — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ruczinski, Ingo
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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.