Investigating the effects of air pollution on respiratory viral infections in Mongolia

2/1 - Mongolian Center for Environmental & Occupational Health - Mongolia

NIH-funded research Mongolian National Univ/medical Sciences · NIH-11081624

This study is looking at how air pollution in Mongolia, especially in Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan City, might affect people's immune systems and their ability to fight off respiratory infections, so we can better understand the health risks for those living in these areas.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMongolian National Univ/medical Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia)
Project IDNIH-11081624 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the severe air pollution in Mongolia, particularly in Ulaanbaatar and Darkhan City, which are known for high levels of particulate matter (PM). The study aims to understand how PM exposure affects the immune response to respiratory viral infections, using data from weekly illness rates and PM levels. By analyzing these relationships, the research seeks to identify potential health risks associated with air pollution and respiratory diseases. The project includes a main study and two pilot studies to explore these interactions further.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults living in Ulaanbaatar or Darkhan City who are exposed to high levels of air pollution.

Not a fit: Patients living in areas with low air pollution or those not affected by respiratory viral infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved public health strategies and interventions to reduce the impact of air pollution on respiratory health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant associations between air pollution and respiratory health, indicating that this approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

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 2026-06-10 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.