Restoring integrity of airway epithelium

Respiratory viruses such as flu can make asthma symptoms worse. The first barrier between viruses and the internal lungs is the outer layer of the airway, called the airway epithelium. This research aims to find ‘markers’ (called microRNAs) in the airway epithelium that can help identify and treat flu infection. This could help develop future treatments for asthma.

Healthy volunteers are needed to compare the results with people who have asthma.

This study is being carried out by a team of researchers and clinicians at Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust and Manchester Metropolitan University.

• Age 18-65 years
• Not diagnosed with a respiratory/ lung condition
• Never or ex-smoker (tobacco or vape)
• Currently under the care of Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust for any health condition, or have attended in the past (includes Salford Royal Hospital, Rochdale Hospital, Oldham Hospital or Fairfield Hospital).

• Salford Royal Hospital (M6 8HD)

• Attending one clinic appointment (approx.2-3 hours), which will include a bronchoscopy

A bronchoscopy is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the nose or mouth to look at the inside of the airway and take a small sample of epithelium (biopsy)

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