How does the lung recognise and deal with specific irritants in the air?

When we breathe, our lungs are bombarded with airborne irritants like bacteria, smoke, pollen and dust. Our lungs are protected from these irritants by cells that recognise and neutralise or remove them. While trying to understand how this happens, researchers have found evidence of surface molecules on the cells known as ‘Toll-like receptors’. These molecules are able to detect irritants and trigger a defence mechanism. Research also suggests that things going wrong with this system may contribute to diseases like COPD and asthma.

Dr Paul Clark intends to investigate how these ‘Toll-like receptors’ interact with particular irritants and how this system is linked to the inflammation seen in diseases like COPD and asthma. This research will help scientists to understand the potential for the Toll-like receptor system to be used as a target for new drugs to treat these diseases.

Amount awarded: £120,000
Relevant disease area(s): COPD, asthma, ARDS
Relevant age group(s): All