Understanding RSV and Asthma in Children
RSV and asthma: Defining host and exposure variation on disease development
This research explores how respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections in babies might lead to asthma later in childhood, aiming to find ways to prevent it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115698 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
For many years, doctors have noticed a strong link between severe RSV infections in infants and the development of asthma. This project builds on previous findings that showed a shared genetic tendency for both conditions and that even mild RSV infections in babies can increase asthma risk. Researchers are looking at how RSV might change a baby's developing nasal microbiome and immune responses, and they've even found specific RSV strains linked to higher asthma risk. The goal is to understand the exact pathways through which RSV contributes to asthma, including changes in airway DNA, to help develop new prevention strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for children, particularly those aged 0-11 years, who have experienced RSV infections and are at risk for or have developed asthma.
Not a fit: Patients whose asthma is not linked to early childhood RSV infection may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent asthma in children who have had RSV infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous phases of this research have already demonstrated significant findings regarding the relationship between RSV infection and asthma risk, building a strong foundation for this expanded work.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hartert, Tina V — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hartert, Tina V
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 below.