Pathophysiological correlates in smokers and smoking-related Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) [ 2005 - 2007 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Eugene Walters (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr David Reid ,  Dr J Lord ,  Dr Richard Wood-Baker ,  E/Pr H Muller

Brief description Smoking-related chronic airway narrowing (COPD) is a common and major illness. Research on the characteristics of the actual pathological process in the airways in smokers and COPD using direct tissue sample is relatively new. Data is currently limited and rather contradictory. In this grant we will recruit a spectrum of smokers and COPD patients typical of those in the Australian community and will be undertaking a detailed analysis of the cellular and some vascular structural changes in the airway wall. Both cellular and vascular changes will be related to the fixed and reversible component of airway obstruction. Reversible changes with smoking cessation will be studied. A very novel feature will be a preliminary assessment of the utility of proteomics for assessment of airway pathology.

Funding Amount $AUD 283,500.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant