Investigating the health effects of inhaling metal particles from uranium mines
Official title: Systemic Implications and Novel Mechanisms of Circulating Extracellular Vesicles Following Inhaled Exposures
Funded at University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-11087622 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breathing in dust from uranium mining might affect your overall health, especially your blood vessels and inflammation, by examining tiny particles released from your cells; if you're a former miner, you could help by sharing your health information and samples to better understand these effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | July 20, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $512,345 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES033981-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087622 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with a history of exposure to uranium mining dust, particularly former miners and residents near mining sites.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to mining-related particulate matter or who do not have related health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how inhaling particulate matter from uranium mining affects systemic health, particularly through the role of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs). The study aims to explore the mechanisms of sEV production and their impact on inflammation and vascular health following exposure to mining dust. By examining a cohort of former miners, the research will assess how different types of mining dust influence vascular biomarkers and overall health outcomes. Patients may be involved in providing biological samples and health data to help elucidate these relationships.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of health risks associated with exposure to airborne pollutants from mining activities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated significant health impacts from inhaled particulate matter, suggesting that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring entirely novel territory.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zychowski, Katherine — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Zychowski, Katherine
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.