Scientists probe why only some smokers develop lung disease

NCT ID NCT04722835

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, San Francisco Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at why some smokers develop COPD while others don't. Researchers will collect lung cells from 40 former smokers using a bronchoscopy and analyze them to find differences in immune cells called macrophages. The goal is to understand the biological reasons behind COPD susceptibility, which could lead to better prevention and treatment in the future.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this research could uncover biological markers that predict which smokers are at risk for COPD, paving the way for future prevention strategies.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage discovery study with only 40 participants, so findings may not apply broadly. It aims to gather data, not test a treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD, severe early onset nicotine dependence Smoking Tobacco Use

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

COPD SMOKING TOBACCO USE

Contacts and locations

Locations

San Francisco VA Medical Center
RECRUITING

San Francisco, California, 94121, United States
University of California, San Francisco
ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING

San Francisco, California, 94122, United States
Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center
ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING

San Francisco, California, 94110, United States

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