National Jewish Health conducts extensive research across various respiratory and immune-related conditions. Asthma research focuses on understanding disease mechanisms, innovative treatments and patient-centered approaches. In COPD, significant genetic studies and clinical trials are focused on improving patient outcomes. Interstitial lung disease programs explore mechanisms of diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and involve collaborative research for novel therapies. Allergic disease research encompasses a wide range of allergies, including food and eczema, aiming for personalized treatment strategies. Cystic fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension research focus on advancing treatment options through clinical trials. Additionally, multiple studies examine sleep disorders, environmental lung diseases, cancer (particularly lung cancer), utilizing advanced imaging and immunotherapy. Ultimately, research aims to enhance understanding, diagnosis and management across these complex health issues.
At National Jewish Health, we are world renowned for our research and treatment of asthma. We have several programs and initiatives focused on advancing the understanding and treatment of asthma. Here's an overview of our research efforts in this area:
- Asthma Institute: Our institute focuses on comprehensive asthma care, including both clinical and research components. We work on understanding the underlying mechanisms of asthma, developing new treatments and improving patient outcomes.
- Research Programs: Cutting-edge research in asthma includes studies on the genetic, environmental and immunological factors that contribute to the disease. We conduct clinical trials and research studies aimed at better understand disease mechanisms and testing new therapies.
- Collaborative Studies: We frequently collaborate with other institutions and researchers to broaden the scope and impact of our asthma research. This includes national and international studies aimed at improving asthma management and treatment.
- Innovative Therapies: Research at National Jewish Health includes the development of novel therapies and treatments. This ranges from new medications to advanced biologic therapies targeting specific pathways involved in asthma.
- Patient-Centered Research: We also focus on research that directly impacts patient care throughout the life cycle, such as improving diagnostic tools, developing better methods for monitoring asthma and enhancing personalized treatment approaches.
Our faculty are recognized leaders for research and treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Our programs are designed to advance understanding, improve treatment and enhance patient care for those with COPD. Here's a detailed look at some of our COPD research efforts:
- COPD Gene Center: We lead the largest NIH sponsored program examining genetic and clinical changes in the largest COPD patient cohort in the United States. Our COPD Center provides comprehensive care and conducts advanced research. We focus on both clinical and translational research to improve outcomes for patients with COPD.
- Research Programs: Our renowned researchers conduct innovative research in COPD, including the role of inflammation, oxidative stress, genetic, environmental and immunological factors that contribute to the disease. Studies on genetic and epigenetic factors contributing to COPD susceptibility and progression are also a key area of focus. We also explore novel treatment approaches and interventions.
- Collaborative Efforts: Researchers work closely with other institutions, pharmaceutical companies and academic centers to advance COPD research. These collaborations help to leverage a wide range of expertise and resources.
- Clinical Trials and Innovative Therapies: We conduct clinical trials testing new medications, therapies and devices aimed at improving COPD management. Long-term studies focus on understanding disease progression, identify biomarkers, and evaluate the effectiveness of various treatments over time.
We are recognized for our specialized research and treatment programs in Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), which encompasses a variety of disorders affecting the lung interstitium. Our research efforts are aimed at improving understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of these complex diseases. Here's an overview of our ILD research programs:
- Interstitial Lung Disease Center: The ILD Center provides comprehensive care and innovative research on interstitial lung diseases. The center integrates clinical care with cutting-edge research to address the needs of ILD patients.
- Research Programs: Our researchers conduct studies on various types of ILD, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), sarcoidosis and other interstitial pneumonias. Our researchers investigate the underlying mechanisms of ILD, including the role of fibrosis, inflammation, and genetic factors in disease development and progression.
- Collaborative Research: Our scientists collaborate with other research institutions, pharmaceutical companies and academic centers to advance ILD research. These collaborations help in leveraging a wide range of expertise and resources. Our physician scientists participate in and lead multicenter studies to gather broader data and test new approaches.
- Clinical Trials and Novel Diagnostics and Treatments: We are involved in clinical trials testing new drugs, biologics and other treatments for ILD. This includes trials for antifibrotic agents, immunomodulatory drugs and other innovative therapies. Research includes developing and validating new diagnostic tools and biomarkers to improve the accuracy of ILD diagnosis and monitor disease progression.
At National Jewish Health, we are leaders in allergic disease research, employing a multidisciplinary approach to tackle various allergic conditions. Our research programs encompass several key areas of focus and innovative approaches:
- Allergy and Immunology Center: The center specializes in the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of allergic diseases. It integrates research with clinical care to develop new therapies and improve patient outcomes. Our team conducts studies on the pathophysiology of allergies, including the role of immune system dysfunction, environmental triggers and genetic factors.
- Allergic Rhinitis Research: Our scientists investigate the mechanisms of allergic rhinitis, including the role of specific allergens, immune responses and inflammatory pathways. Research aims to improve diagnostic methods and develop new treatment options, such as advanced immunotherapies and personalized medicine approaches.
- Allergic Asthma Research: We are studying the interplay between allergies and asthma, focusing on the mechanisms of allergen-induced asthma, inflammation and airway remodeling. Key efforts involve developing targeted biologic therapies, optimizing current treatments and exploring new treatment strategies.
- Food Allergy Research: Our research includes understanding the immunological basis of food allergies, developing and refining oral immunotherapy protocols and exploring novel treatments to reduce food allergy symptoms and improve patient quality of life.
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) Research: Our investigators study the immunological and genetic factors contributing to eczema, assessing new topical and systemic treatments and improving understanding of how eczema impacts overall health.
- Immunotherapy Research: The development of novel allergen-specific immunotherapies is a major area of research, including sublingual and subcutaneous immunotherapy. Research also includes exploring combination therapies and new methods to enhance treatment efficacy.
- Genetic and Environmental Factors Research: Our researchers study the genetic predispositions and environmental factors that contribute to allergic diseases, with the aim of identifying biomarkers for early diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies. We investigate how allergic diseases affect patients’ quality of life and exploring strategies to improve management and support for those with chronic allergic conditions.
- Collaborative Research: At National Jewish Health, we collaborate with other institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and research organizations to enhance the scope and impact of our research. This includes multicenter studies and joint research initiatives.
- Clinical Trials and Novel Diagnostics and Treatments: Our teams are involved in clinical trials testing new drugs, biologics, and other treatments for allergic disorders. Research includes developing and validating new diagnostic tools and biomarkers to improve the accuracy of allergic diseases and monitor disease progression.
We lead research and treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and other organs. Our programs focus on advancing understanding, improving treatments and enhancing the quality of life for people with CF.
- Adult Cystic Fibrosis Research Center: Understanding the genetic and environmental factors of cystic fibrosis, developing new treatments and improving care strategies for managing the disease.
- Non-Tuberculosis Mycobacterial (NTM) Lung Infection Research: Our research focuses on understanding and treating NTM infections in people with cystic fibrosis, including bronchiectasis, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnostics and treatment strategies.
- Collaborative Research: We collaborate with other institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to enhance the scope and impact of our research. This includes multicenter studies and joint research initiatives.
- Clinical Trials and Novel Diagnostics and Treatments: At National Jewish Health, we are involved in clinical trials testing new drugs, biologics and other treatments for CF. Research includes developing strategies to manage symptoms, improve adherence to treatment and support overall health and well-being.
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries that can lead to heart failure and other serious complications. Our research programs at National Jewish Health aim to improve understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of pulmonary hypertension.
- Pulmonary Hypertension Research Center: This center provides specialized care for patients with pulmonary hypertension, combining clinical expertise with cutting-edge research to advance treatment and improve patient outcomes.
- Pulmonary Hypertension Research: Our researchers investigate various aspects of pulmonary hypertension, including its causes, progression and response to treatment. Our investigators focus on the underlying mechanisms of pulmonary hypertension, including the role of endothelial dysfunction, vasoconstriction and remodeling of the pulmonary arteries. Research efforts are aimed at developing and optimizing therapies and improving disease management.
- Clinical Trials and Studies: Our physician scientists conduct clinical trials to evaluate new and emerging treatments for pulmonary hypertension.
At National Jewish Health, we are a leading institution in the study and treatment of sleep disorders, offering comprehensive research programs aimed at improving understanding and management of various sleep-related conditions.
- Sleep Disorders Research: Our investigators research sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea, and their impact on overall health.
We are among the leaders in research on environmental and occupational lung diseases, focusing on understanding how various environmental and workplace exposures contribute to lung health issues. Our research programs aim to improve diagnosis, treatment and prevention strategies for these conditions.
- Environmental and Occupational Lung Disease Center: Our center specializes in the study and management of lung diseases caused by environmental and occupational exposures. It integrates clinical care with research to address the impact of these exposures on lung health. Research includes studying genetic predispositions that may influence an individual’s susceptibility to lung diseases caused by environmental and occupational exposures. Our center investigates a wide range of environmental and occupational lung diseases, including asthma, chronic beryllium disease, sarcoidosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumoconiosis, and other conditions related to exposure to pollutants, dust and chemicals.
- Environmental Exposures Research: Air pollution research and its impact on lung health, including the effects of particulate matter, ozone, and other pollutants is a focus of investigators. Studies aim to understand how these exposures contribute to chronic lung diseases and exacerbations of existing conditions. Another research focus is on indoor air quality where our investigators research the health effects of indoor air pollutants, such as tobacco smoke, mold, and volatile organic compounds, to develop strategies for improving indoor air quality and mitigating health risks.
- Occupational Exposures Research: Our researchers study pneumoconiosis caused by exposure to dusts, such as coal dust (black lung disease) and asbestos, to better understand their mechanisms and develop effective treatments. Another area of research excellence is our work that explores the effects of exposure to various chemicals in the workplace, including solvents, pesticides and industrial fumes, on lung health and disease progression.
- Collaborative Research: We collaborate with other research organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions to advance research on environmental and occupational lung diseases. This includes participating in and leading multicenter studies and research initiatives to enhance the scope and impact of our research.
- Clinical Trials and Studies: At National Jewish Health, we conduct clinical trials to evaluate new interventions and treatments for diseases related to environmental and occupational exposures. This includes testing new medications, therapies, and preventive measures.
At National Jewish Health, we have a long history of advanced research in immunology, focusing on understanding the immune system and its role in various diseases. Our research programs in immunology cover a broad range of topics and aim to develop new therapies and improve patient outcomes.
- Immunology Research Center: The Immunology Center at National Jewish Health focuses on investigating the mechanisms of immune system function and dysfunction. The center integrates research with clinical care to advance understanding and treatment of immune-related diseases. The center conducts research on various aspects of immunology, including autoimmune diseases, allergic disorders, immunodeficiencies, and inflammatory conditions.
- Autoimmune Disease Research: We focus on mechanisms underlying autoimmune diseases, such as Type I diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and vasculitis. Research includes studying the genetic, environmental, and immunological factors that contribute to autoimmunity.
- Allergy and Asthma Research: Our researchers study the immunological basis of allergic diseases and asthma, including the role of IgE, T cells, and other immune components. Research aims to develop targeted treatments and improve management strategies for allergic conditions.
- Immunodeficiency Disorders Research: Scientists focus on the understanding of primary and secondary immunodeficiencies, including conditions like severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) and common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). Research includes exploring genetic causes, improving diagnostic methods, and developing new treatments.
- Vaccine Research: Our investigators focus on developing and testing new vaccines and immunization strategies. Research includes understanding immune responses to vaccines and improving vaccine efficacy and safety.
- Regulatory Immunology: Our researchers study the mechanisms of immune regulation and tolerance, including the role of regulatory T cells and other mechanisms that maintain immune homeostasis and prevent autoimmunity.
- Immunogenetics: Our scientists study the genetic factors that influence immune system function and disease susceptibility. Research includes exploring how genetic variations impact immune responses and contribute to disease development.
We focus on pioneering research in cancer, particularly lung cancer. Our research delves into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying cancer, aiming to develop targeted therapies and improve early detection methods. We also investigate the interactions between cancer and the immune system to enhance treatment strategies.
- Lung Cancer Research: National Jewish Health is a leader in lung cancer research, exploring new ways to diagnose and treat this disease. Our work includes studying the genetic and molecular changes in lung cancer to develop targeted therapies and improve early detection methods.
- Immunotherapy Research: Researchers at National Jewish Health investigate how the immune system interacts with cancer cells. We aim to develop and refine immunotherapy approaches, which harness the body's own immune system to fight cancer more effectively.
- Personalized Medicine: Our physician scientists are involved in tailoring cancer treatments to individual patients based on their unique genetic and molecular profiles. This personalized approach aims to increase the effectiveness of treatments and reduce side effects.
- Clinical Trials and Studies: We conduct clinical trials to evaluate new interventions and treatments for lung cancers. This includes testing new medications, therapies, and preventive measures.
At National Jewish Health, we conduct cutting edge research into Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), focusing on understanding its complex mechanisms and developing new treatments.
- Mechanisms of Lung Injury and Repair: Research includes studying the mechanisms by which lung injuries occur and how the lung tissue repairs itself. Our investigators have a strong research focus on the role of macrophages in the injury and repair process. Understanding these processes can lead to the development of therapies that support lung repair and regeneration.
- Pathophysiology of ARDS: Our researchers study the underlying biological processes of ARDS, including how inflammation, fluid accumulation and damage to lung epithelial cells contribute to the syndrome. This research helps in identifying potential therapeutic targets.
- Clinical Trials and Studies: We engage in clinical trials evaluating new interventions and treatments for ARDS. Our physician scientists explore innovative treatments for ARDS, including the development of new drugs, novel anti-inflammatory agents and strategies to reduce lung damage. This research aims to improve the effectiveness of current therapies and explore new avenues for intervention.
At National Jewish Health, we have a robust focus on radiology and imaging research, particularly in the context of respiratory and lung diseases. Our programs explore advanced imaging techniques to improve the diagnosis and management of conditions like lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and interstitial lung disease. We work on developing and refining imaging technologies such as high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance early detection, monitor disease progression, and assess treatment responses. Additionally, our research often includes integrating imaging data with molecular and genetic information to create more personalized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
We focus on understanding neurological conditions, particularly those linked to immune system dysfunction. Our research often delves into how immune responses affect neurological health, exploring diseases like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in athletes. The ultimate goal is to develop targeted therapies and improve patient outcomes.
- TBI research: Our researchers work with investigators from the University of Denver to study the long term effects of head trauma sustained during college sports. Studies examine how neuroinflammation (inflammation within the brain) following a TBI might influence recovery and the development of secondary conditions. Understanding these processes could lead to better management strategies and therapeutic interventions.
- Clinical Trials and Studies: We conduct a number clinical trials evaluating new interventions and treatments for POTS. Our physician scientists explore innovative treatments for POTS, and investigate how dysfunctions in the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions, contribute to the symptoms of POTS. This research aims to improve the effectiveness of current therapies and explore new avenues for intervention.