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Research

The effects of in utero vitamin D deficiency on airway smooth muscle mass and lung function

In this study, we aimed to uncover the molecular mechanisms contributing to altered lung structure and function.

Research

Sexual dimorphism in lung function responses to acute influenza A infection

Males are generally more susceptible to respiratory infections; however, there are few data on the physiological responses to such infections in males and...

News & Events

Study finds high acute respiratory infection risk for vulnerable babies

Pre-term baby

Research

Preventing perioperative respiratory complications in children with recurrent respiratory symptoms

Elizabeth Graham Smith Hall PhD, MSc, BSc BAppSci PhD CRFS FANZSRS FThorSoc FERS Program Manager Honorary Research Associate 08 6319 1178

Research

Exposure to biodiesel exhaust is less harmful than exposure to mineral diesel exhaust on blood-brain barrier integrity in a murine model

Emerging data suggest that air pollution is a persistent source of neuroinflammation, reactive oxygen species, and neuropathology that contributes to central nervous system disorders. Previous research using animal models has shown that exposure to diesel exhaust causes considerable disruption of the blood-brain barrier, leading to marked neuroinflammation.

Research

Exposomes and metabolic health through a physical activity lens: a narrative review

In this narrative review, we provide an overview of the role of physical activity as part of differing exposomes (our combined non-genetic exposures from conception onwards) and environmental influences on metabolic health. We discuss 'beneficial' exposomes (green/natural outdoor spaces, sun exposure, healthy diets and features of built environments) that could synergise with physical activity to prevent metabolic dysfunction, particularly that related to lifestyle diseases of obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Research

Fuel feedstock determines biodiesel exhaust toxicity in a human airway epithelial cell exposure model

Biodiesel is promoted as a sustainable replacement for commercial diesel. Biodiesel fuel and exhaust properties change depending on the base feedstock oil/fat used during creation. The aims of this study were, for the first time, to compare the exhaust exposure health impacts of a wide range of biodiesels made from different feedstocks and relate these effects with the corresponding exhaust characteristics.

Researchers sound the alarm as vaping fad explodes

Research into the potential health impacts of vaping is starting to back up concerns that electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are not as benign as many people think.

Research

Independent and combined effects of airway remodelling and allergy on airway responsiveness

There was a positive relationship between the thickness of the airway smooth muscle layer with airway responsiveness, which was shifted upward in the presence of allergy

Research

WA Epithelial Research Program for Childhood Respiratory Diseases

Once thought to be a simple barrier to the external environment, epithelial cells are involved in many repair and inflammatory processes that occur in childhood airway diseases.