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Diesel Exhaust Induces Glucocorticoid Resistance

Exposure to Pollution | Glucocorticoid Resistance

The investigators are studying the effects of exposure to diesel exhaust on lung inflammation in the presence and absence of an inhaled corticosteroid. Although data is mixed, studies show that asthmatics have increased lung inflammation and worse symptoms during periods of higher air pollution despite taking their anti-inflammatory corticosteroid medication. One possible reason is that air pollution exposure may decrease the ability of corticosteroids to combat inflammation.

To test this volunteers will inhale either a placebo or a corticosteroid, before sitting in an exposure booth for 2 hours breathing either filtered air or diluted diesel exhaust. Samples will be collected before and after exposure to analyze the effects of budesonide and diesel exhaust exposure.

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Participation Requirements

  • Sex:

    ALL

  • Eligible Ages:

    19 to 49

Participation Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Aged 19-49
2. Have physician-diagnosed asthma confirmed by the study physician examination, spirometry, methacholine challenge provocative concentration causing a 20% fall (PC20) of \<16 mg/mL, and questionnaires during a screening visit

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Smoking of any kind (0.5 pack-years ever, or any current) or use of vape/vaporizing devices
2. Regular anti-histamine, NSAID, corticosteroid or other controller medication use
3. Pregnancy or breastfeeding
4. Methacholine PC20 \>16
5. Relevant cardiac condition or arrhythmia
6. Body mass index of \>35
7. Currently participating in another study that may interfere with this study
8. Use of either inhaled or oral corticosteroids in preceding 6 months
9. Substantial comorbidities on study physician's examination or other concerns
10. Surgery scheduled before anticipated study completion

Study Location

University of British Columbia
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada

Contact Study Team

Primary Contact

Chris Carlsten, MD MPH

[email protected]
604-875-4729
Backup Contact

Ryan D Huff, MSc

[email protected]
604-875-5132
Study Sponsored By
University of British Columbia
Participants Required
More Information
Study ID: NCT03615742