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Pulmonary biology and lung diseases

Support innovative, timely and high impact research addressing basic, translational or clinical aspects of tobacco-related pulmonary biology and lung diseases. TRDRP will support studies on lung diseases that the Report of the Surgeon General has identified as being caused by tobacco-related products. TRDRP will also support projects in which tobacco-related products or their constituents are integral to the proposed study. Research that can inform FDA regulations on new and emerging tobacco products is of particular interest.

TRDRP supports innovative, timely and high impact research that addresses basic, translational or clinical aspects of tobacco-related diseases. Research into the mechanisms, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of tobacco-related diseases, with a focus on disproportionately affected groups, is of critical importance to reducing the negative impact of tobacco product use.  TRDRP-funded studies must focus on diseases and biomedical mechanisms that are directly related to tobacco use. Research that can inform FDA regulations on new and emerging tobacco products is of particular interest. 

 Examples of relevant research topics:  

  • Molecular changes in various lung cell culture models or in animals or humans exposed to inhaled e-cigarette smoke and aerosol indicating the role of nicotine, flavorants or non-menthol synthetic cooling agents. 
  • Cellular interactions or molecular pathways that drive the inflammatory response in the lungs of tobacco users. 
  • The mechanisms (molecular, genetic, social) that drive differences in COPD susceptibility and progression. 
  • The role of combusted tobacco smoke or new and emerging tobacco products in the development and exacerbation of asthma, emphysema, COPD, or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. 
  • Impact of tobacco product use on the general lung health of youth or other tobacco priority populations.