Using gut bacteria to improve lung health in firefighters exposed to World Trade Center dust
Official title: Microbiome Targeted Treatment of WTC- Lung Injury
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10995017 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain type of gut bacteria might help improve lung health for firefighters who were exposed to harmful dust from the World Trade Center, and it aims to find new ways to support their recovery and breathing.
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) | $172,798 |
| NIH project number | 1K01OH012795-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10995017 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are firefighters who have been exposed to World Trade Center dust and are experiencing persistent lung issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of exposure to World Trade Center dust or who do not have lung-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific gut bacteria, particularly bacteroides ovatus, can be used to improve lung health in firefighters who were exposed to harmful dust from the World Trade Center. By analyzing blood samples from previous studies, the researchers aim to understand how these bacteria influence inflammation and lung function. Additionally, they will use animal models to test the effectiveness of bacteriotherapy as a treatment for lung disease caused by particulate matter. The goal is to uncover new therapeutic strategies that could enhance recovery and lung health in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve lung function and overall health for firefighters suffering from lung injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research, such as the FIREHOUSE trial, has shown promising results in improving lung health through dietary interventions, suggesting that this approach may also be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwon, Sophia S — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Kwon, Sophia S
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.