Understanding how immune cell exosomes contribute to COPD

Pathogenic Exosomes in COPD

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11063115

This study is looking at tiny particles from immune cells to see how they might affect the progression of COPD, using mice to help us understand how these particles could lead to tissue damage and possibly help us find better treatments for people with COPD.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11063115 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of immune cell-derived exosomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using a mouse model. By studying how these exosomes transfer disease characteristics from humans to mice, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms of disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. The approach includes examining how exosomes can enhance protease activity and lead to tissue damage, providing insights that could improve treatment strategies for COPD patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with COPD, particularly those with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency.

Not a fit: Patients with COPD who do not have alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency or those with other unrelated respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that better manage or even prevent COPD.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding the role of exosomes in various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for COPD as well.

Where this research is happening

BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.