Scientists spy on Lungs' first response to fake infection

NCT ID NCT02392442

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study looks at how healthy lungs respond to a substance called endotoxin, which mimics a bacterial infection. Researchers will collect lung cells and fluid from 58 healthy, non-smoking adults using a thin tube inserted into the airways. The goal is to understand inflammation and the role of microRNA molecules in the lung's defense.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Endotoxin
What this could lead to
If successful, this could improve understanding of how the lungs fight infection and how microRNA influences inflammation.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage study in healthy volunteers, not patients. It aims to understand basic biology, not test a treatment, so direct benefits are unlikely.

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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States