Smoking increases SARS-CoV-2 receptors in the lung
Research suggests that cigarette smoke triggers an increase in ACE2 receptors in the lungs, a protein used by the coronavirus to enter human cells. Quitting smoking may reduce this risk.
Lungs
Research on the lungs and respiratory health. Covers asthma prevention, immune cell activity, age-related decline, and pulmonary care.
Machine that oxygenates blood may help critically ill COVID-19 patients, according to WVU study
A WVU study found that extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) can be life-saving for some critically ill COVID-19 patients, particularly those with lung dysfunction. However, older patients with pre-existing conditions and heart function impairment may not benefit from ECMO treatment.
New technology conceived at UniTrento supports COVID-19 testing within seconds
A new software application, developed by the University of Trento in collaboration with the University of Eindhoven, provides support for diagnosing Covid-19. The technology uses artificial intelligence to analyze lung ultrasound scans, offering faster and more accurate diagnoses.
How COVID-19 kills
A new study explains the mechanisms of COVID-19, revealing how the virus triggers an immune system overreaction, resulting in a cytokine storm. This can lead to respiratory failure, as well as damage to organs such as the heart and kidneys. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting organ function.
Mucus breakthrough could help patients breathe easy
Researchers have discovered that trefoil factors, a type of protein, bind to mucin glycoproteins in the lungs, making mucus thicker and more viscous. This knowledge could lead to new therapeutics for treating chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, and COPD.
3D printing used by anesthesiologists to prepare for lung operation on young girl
Anesthesiologists in Israel used 3D printing and virtual reality to create a personalized airway plan for a 7-year-old girl undergoing lung surgery. The plan reduced trial and error during the operation, allowing for a successful outcome.
SourceThe European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (ESAIC)·JournalEuropean Journal of Anaesthesiology·DateMay 6, 2020
The brain may be a new therapeutic target for improving breathing following lung injury in COVID-19
Targeting the brain's control of breathing may help improve breathing in patients with respiratory disorders like COVID-19. Researchers found that reducing neural inflammation can minimize lung injury effects.
LSU Health study suggests nicotine exposure alone leads to pulmonary hypertension
A new study from LSU Health reveals that chronic nicotine inhalation increases blood pressure and leads to pulmonary hypertension, accompanied by changes in lung and heart blood vessels. The researchers also found the adverse effects of inhaled nicotine are largely isolated to the right heart.
Long-lasting, low toxicity antimicrobial peptide fights 'superbug' lung infections
Researchers developed a low-toxicity antimicrobial peptide that effectively fought drug-resistant bacteria in laboratory cell cultures and mice, offering hope for treating respiratory infections. The new peptide, D8, showed remarkable stability and activity against superbugs, posing less risk to human cells.
Higher thrombus risk in men with obesity in adolescence
A study published in Journal of Internal Medicine found that men with a history of obesity in their late teens are more at risk of developing blood clots (venous thromboembolism) in adulthood. The risk increases progressively, with severe obesity associated with a nearly fivefold higher risk.
Tobacco smoking increases lung entry points for COVID-19 virus
Researchers found a 25% increase in ACE2 expression in lung tissues from ever-smokers compared to nonsmokers, suggesting an increased risk for viral binding and entry. Smoking also remodelled gene expression, making it easier for the virus to infect human cells.
SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 29, 2020
Arthritis drug presents promise as treatment for COVID-19 pneumonia
A Phase III clinical trial is assessing whether tocilizumab can reduce out-of-control inflammation and improve health outcomes in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia. The study aims to determine if the drug reduces mortality, need for mechanical ventilation, and ICU admissions.
Project receives major grant to breathe new life into childhood lung disease research
A new project led by Murdoch Children's Research Institute has received a $525,000 grant to analyze lung samples from healthy and unwell children to describe lung inflammation in childhood disorders such as asthma and bronchiectasis. The study aims to inform strategies for improving clinical care and pulmonary health throughout life.
Researchers identify key mechanisms involved in pulmonary fibrosis development
Researchers discovered that the loss of NEDD4-2 protein leads to impaired mucociliary clearance and dysregulation of the TGF? signaling pathway, contributing to pulmonary fibrosis progression. The study provides a novel animal model for IPF research, enabling further investigation of disease mechanisms and development of new treatments.
Artificial intelligence could serve as backup to radiologists' eyes
A recent study found that artificial intelligence can provide results comparable to lung function tests in diagnosing emphysema and classifying its severity. The AI system can automatically analyze chest scans and create a 3D model of the patient's lungs, helping doctors better communicate with patients and track treatment progress.
SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateApr 27, 2020
Can vaping scar your lungs? New insights and a possible remedy
Researchers discover e-cigarette liquid can cause lung tissue repair process to go haywire, leading to scarring. Inhibiting a certain nicotinic receptor may help promote cell death and slow scar formation in affected individuals.
Key nose cells identified as likely COVID-19 virus entry points
Researchers have identified goblet and ciliated cells in the nose as likely initial infection points for COVID-19 coronavirus. The study found that these cells express key entry proteins used by the virus to infect cells, making them highly accessible to the virus.
UB researchers create a low-cost ventilator for areas with limited means
A non-invasive low-cost ventilator has been designed and tested by UB researchers, providing efficient respiratory support to patients. The prototype adapted to spontaneous breathing rhythm and provided a feeling of breathing relief similar to commercial devices.
Low-cost, easy-to-build ventilator performs similarly to high-quality commercial device
A low-cost, easy-to-build non-invasive ventilator has been developed and tested, performing similarly to conventional commercial devices. The prototype provides effective breathing support for patients with respiratory failure, potentially improving outcomes and alleviating pressure on health systems.
First official ATS practice guidelines for Sarcoidosis cover diagnosis and detection
The American Thoracic Society has published its first official guidelines for diagnosing sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease affecting the lungs and other organs. The guidelines recommend a baseline serum test to screen for hypercalcemia, as well as conditional tests for specific symptoms and organ involvement.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 20, 2020
Lung-heart super sensor on a chip tinier than a ladybug
A new sensor chip smaller than a ladybug records multiple lung and heart signals, body movements, and sounds to offer the big picture of a patient's heart and lung health. The chip's high resolution and quantified data could identify pathologies and enable clinical readings in the future.
COVID-19: Australian research offers hope as world struggles with ventilator shortage
Researchers from Monash University and The Royal Women's Hospital developed a ventilator splitting method that can be used with standard hospital equipment to address the global ventilator shortage. The study, published in Anaesthesia, found that by modifying air pressure, flow, and volume, two lungs of different compliances can be ven...
Cost-effective oxygen concentrators
ETH Zurich researchers have designed cost-effective oxygen concentrators to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. The devices use a novel membrane technology and can be replicated almost anywhere in the world using locally available materials.
New study shows how oxygen transfer is altered in diseased lung tissue
Researchers developed graphene-based sensors to measure oxygen transport in bovine lung tissue, revealing that a surfactant called cardiolipin disrupts oxygen balance in pneumonia patients. The study also found damaged spots in diseased tissue, which may be responsible for increased oxygen transfer.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 9, 2020
Higher levels of coronavirus 'entry point' enzyme in lungs of COPD patients and smokers
A study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that people with COPD and smokers have higher levels of ACE-2, a molecule that allows coronavirus to infect lung cells. Former smokers had similar levels of ACE-2 as non-smokers, highlighting the importance of quitting smoking to protect against COVID-19.
Identification of new factors important in maintaining lung function in the elderly
Researchers from Kumamoto University found that the DsbA-L protein plays a crucial role in maintaining lung function in the elderly. They discovered that variations in the DsbA-L gene are associated with changes in respiratory function and antioxidant functionality. The study suggests that boosting DsbA-L expression may help promote he...
Bedroom air filters help asthmatic children breathe easier
A new study finds that using bedroom air filters can significantly improve breathing in asthmatic children. Consistent daily use of filters for two weeks reduced airway resistance, lung inflammation, and increased airway elasticity. The findings suggest that the filters may help prevent asthma flare-ups without costly medications.
Water pressure: Ancient aquatic crocs evolved, enlarged to avoid freezing
A recent study from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln suggests that ancient aquatic crocodiles evolved to enormous sizes due to water pressure. The minimum survivable size threshold for these aquatic species was found to be around 10 kilograms, and they surpassed their semi-aquatic and landlocked counterparts in average weight by a fa...
World-first tool to improve COVID-19 diagnosis, free and online
A new online platform, CovED, aims to improve COVID-19 diagnosis by providing healthcare workers with rapid training and image-based diagnostic tools. Developed by DetectED-X, the platform can be accessed for free and is supported by leading corporations and healthcare experts.
How tissues harm themselves during wound healing
A recent study published in Immunity identified the protein Rbm7 as a key player in the development of tissue fibrosis. The researchers found that Rbm7 induces cell death after tissue injury, leading to the recruitment of immune cells that form scar tissue.
Wuhan study shows lying face down improves breathing in severe COVID-19
A retrospective study of 12 patients with severe COVID-19 found that lying face down improved lung function and reduced the need for high positive pressure. Prone positioning was associated with increased lung recruitability, reducing harm to patients.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 24, 2020
Bacterial protein fragment kills lung cells in pulmonary fibrosis, study finds
Researchers at University of Illinois and Mie University discover salt-loving bacteria secret a peptide that rapidly kills lung cells, leading to acute exacerbation. The finding offers a potential new target for treating pulmonary fibrosis, a disease affecting millions worldwide.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2020
Adjusting processing temperature results in better hydrogels for biomedical applications
Researchers found that creating hydrogels at room temperature or below results in more robust materials. The findings could improve the 3D printing of biomaterials and enhance their performance in biomedical applications.
ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers may increase the risk of severe COVID-19
ACE inhibitors and ARBs may raise the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes due to increased ACE2 receptors in the lungs. Patients with hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and chronic renal disease are more susceptible.
SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Travel Medicine·DateMar 23, 2020
High levels of iron in the lung linked to increased asthma severity
Research finds that high levels of iron build-up in lung cells worsen asthma symptoms and lower lung function. The study suggests a link between iron absorption, immune system responses, and asthma severity.
Molds damage the lung's protective barrier to spur future asthma attacks
Researchers found that Aspergillus molds attack the lung's epithelial cells, causing a leaky barrier and triggering an overreaction to future mold exposure. The TRPV4-calcium pathway plays a key role in this response, suggesting new avenues for preventing asthma.
Validating a better way to stratify BPD risk in vulnerable newborns
A new study has validated a better way to stratify BPD risk in extremely preterm infants, using a longer duration of supplemental oxygen. The findings suggest that babies who require oxygen for over 120 days are at high risk of respiratory complications and should receive expanded ventilation before discharge.
Adding smoking cessation to lung cancer screening can reduce mortality by 14%
Including smoking cessation with existing lung cancer screening efforts would significantly reduce lung cancer mortality and increase life-years gained. The study found that point-of-screening cessation interventions could further reduce lung cancer deaths by 14% and increase life-years gained by 81%.
SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMar 9, 2020
Hydrogen sulfide heightens disease in tuberculosis, suggesting a new therapeutic target
Research led by Andries Steyn found that Mtb bacteria induce increased hydrogen sulfide production in human macrophages, increasing pathogenesis and virulence. The study suggests that targeting hydrogen sulfide production may be useful for managing tuberculosis and other microbial infections.
Scientists discover three genes associated with fatal lung disease
Researchers have identified three genes linked to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a devastating lung disease. The discovery provides potential targets for new drugs and may lead to improved treatments.
SourceNational Institute for Health Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2020
Inhalation therapy shows promise against pulmonary fibrosis in mice, rats
A new study from North Carolina State University found that lung stem cell secretions delivered via nebulizer can help repair lung injuries due to multiple types of pulmonary fibrosis in mice and rats. The treatment resulted in a nearly 50% reduction of fibrosis compared to mesenchymal stem cells counterparts.
First-ever pathology of the early phase of lung infection with the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19)
A study has described the pathology of SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19, for the first time in its early phase. The research reveals edema, proteinaceous exudate, and inflammatory cellular infiltration in patients with COVID-19 pneumonina.
SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 27, 2020
Mid-life weight gain linked to faster decline in lung capacity in older age
A 20-year study found that mid-life weight gain accelerates the natural decline in lung capacity with aging, while weight loss slows it down. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to stave off serious respiratory illness and extend life expectancy.
Weight gain associated with accelerated lung function decline in adulthood
A new study analyzed weight changes and their impact on lung function over a 20-year period, finding that moderate or high weight gain accelerates decline. Weight loss attenuates lung function decline in obese individuals, while maintaining low weight is crucial for preventing chronic respiratory diseases.
New tool for an old disease: Use of PET and CT scans may help develop shorter TB treatment
Researchers developed a noninvasive imaging technique to monitor rifampin levels in TB patients. The dynamic 11C-rifampin PET/CT tool successfully tracked the movement of the tagged drug into lesions and cavities, revealing low penetration rates that can change over time.
Targeting hibernating breast cancer cells in the lung could reduce secondary cancers
Researchers discovered that healthy lung cells support the survival of breast cancer cells, allowing them to form secondary tumours. Targeting the growth of cell protrusions on breast cancer cells can prevent secondary tumour formation.
Traditional biomass stoves shown to cause lung inflammation
A new study published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society has found that traditional biomass stoves significantly increase indoor levels of harmful PM2.5 and carbon monoxide, leading to lung inflammation and potentially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in developing nations.
Researchers start to understand blood vessels one cell at the time
A study has created a database on endothelial cells, which may enhance our understanding of the complex network of blood vessels in the mammalian body. The research team identified 78 endothelial cell subclusters, including unexpected subtypes, that can inform the development of new treatments for diseases.
$3.2 million NIH award to support technology to fight deadly bacterial lung infections
A Purdue team has received a $3.2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to treat antibiotic-resistant lower respiratory infections, a leading cause of death worldwide. The researchers will develop new inhalation therapies using polymyxins and liposomes to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Fetal balloon treatment for lung-damaging birth defect works best when fetal and maternal care are highly coordinated
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy report improved lung function in infants born after FETO therapy, which involves a minimally invasive procedure to block the fetal trachea. The study found that prenatal and postnatal monitoring and care were highly coordinated, allowing for favorable outcomes in the 14 infants born.
UCLA researchers discover new compound that promotes lung health
Researchers identified a molecule that maintains a healthy balance of airway basal stem cells and mature mucociliary cells, potentially leading to new treatments for lung cancer. The compound, Wnt Inhibitor Compound 1 (WIC1), has been shown to limit the proliferation of basal stem cells and restore balance in human cells.
Scientists may have a way to let preemies breathe easier
Scientists have discovered a complex biological process in premature lungs that stimulates production of immune cells, which can help fight respiratory infections. The findings could lead to new treatments for premature infants, who are vulnerable to lifelong respiratory illnesses.
Second wind: New technology to help diagnose and manage respiratory diseases
Researchers at Monash University have developed a new technology to visualize airflow in the lungs, enabling faster and more accurate diagnoses. The technology can pinpoint localized areas of deficiency and has potential for treating respiratory illnesses earlier.
Startup incubator aims to spur life-saving innovations
The Center for Advancing Point of Care Technologies aims to improve quality of life and reduce hospital time for patients with these conditions. Innovations supported by CAPCaT include devices and technologies that help manage hypertension, promote mindfulness and support holistic disease management.
Tumor secreted ANGPTL2 facilitates recruitment of neutrophils to the lung to promote lung pre-metastatic niche formation and targeting ANGPTL2 signaling affects metastatic disease
Researchers found that tumor-derived ANGPTL2 stimulates lung epithelial cells, promoting primary tumor-induced neutrophil recruitment and pre-metastatic niche formation. Targeting ANGPTL2 signaling reduced metastatic load in lungs.
Nanoparticles produced from burning coal result in damage to mice lungs
Research by Virginia Tech scientists found that tiny titanium oxide nanoparticles in coal smog and ash can cause lung damage in mice after a single exposure. The particles trigger an immune response, leading to macrophage death and lung failure.
Researchers describe unique genetic identity of primordial lung progenitors
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified the unique genetic program behind primordial lung progenitors, a rare and transient cell type. This discovery may lead to improved stem cell protocols for treating respiratory diseases such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, and lung interstitial disease.
Researchers build a better lung model
Using a combination of pluripotent stem cells and machine learning, researchers have improved how they generate lung cells. This technique enables the growth of lung cells in a laboratory for over a year, allowing for better modeling of lung diseases and potential personalized treatments.
Magdi Habib Yacoub receives Bakken Scientific Achievement Award
Sir Magdi Habib Yacoub has been honored with the 2020 Earl Bakken Scientific Achievement Award for his pioneering work in heart-lung transplantation and cardiothoracic surgery. He has performed over 2,500 heart transplants and 20,000 heart operations, transforming small hospitals into major transplant programs.
Pneumonia recovery reprograms immune cells of the lung
After recovering from pneumonia, alveolar macrophages transform and retain a memory of their prior experience, influencing future responses to infections. This finding may lead to improved lung defenses against pneumonia in young adults.