Understanding how bronchiectasis progresses in smokers
Official title: Clinical implications and Proteomics of Bronchiectasis Progression in Smokers
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11086752 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how bronchiectasis gets worse over time in people who smoke, using smart imaging technology to find signs that could help predict changes in their lung health, with the goal of improving care for those dealing with this condition and COPD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $794,454 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL173017-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086752 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who have a history of smoking and may be experiencing bronchiectasis or COPD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not smoke and are under 65 years of age may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the progression of bronchiectasis, a condition characterized by the abnormal widening of airways, particularly in individuals who smoke. Using advanced artificial intelligence-based imaging techniques, the study aims to objectively measure changes in bronchiectasis over time in smokers. By analyzing data from two large cohorts, the research seeks to identify biomarkers that could predict the progression of this condition and its impact on lung health. This approach may lead to improved clinical care for patients suffering from both bronchiectasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better monitoring and treatment strategies for patients with bronchiectasis, particularly those who smoke.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to study lung conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Diaz, Alejandro — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Diaz, Alejandro
Related research
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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.