Investigating vascular injury and organ dysfunction in those exposed to World Trade Center dust.
Official title: World Trade Center Particulate Matter-Associated End Organ Dysfunction: Targeting Early Vascular Dysfunction and Injury
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10995060 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how dust from the World Trade Center might affect blood vessel health and organ function, especially in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), by checking blood samples from first responders to find early signs of damage and ways to help improve their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $160,804 |
| NIH project number | 1K01OH012794-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995060 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who were exposed to World Trade Center dust and have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to World Trade Center particulate matter or do not have gastroesophageal reflux disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how exposure to particulate matter from the World Trade Center affects vascular health and leads to organ dysfunction, particularly in individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The study will analyze serum samples from first responders to identify early signs of vascular injury and related kidney damage. By exploring the cellular and molecular mechanisms of these injuries, the research aims to uncover potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for improving patient outcomes. The findings could provide critical insights into the long-term health effects of WTC dust exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for individuals suffering from organ dysfunction related to particulate matter exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown associations between particulate matter exposure and various health issues, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Veerappan, Arul — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Veerappan, Arul
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.