
Significance of Synbiotics on Inflammation and Proliferation of Colonic Mucosa
InflammationThere is a constant exchange between the gut epithelium and lumen, including microbial interplay. The aim of this study was to investigate dietary test products on inflammatory proliferation markers in the gut, and thereby if the products had positive effects in the gut as well as in other parts of the body. The hypothesis was that the test products would reduce the inflammatory and proliferation activity of the gut epithelium by fermentation of normal food products and by converting dietary phenolic compounds into anti-inflammatory substances.

Effects of Berries and Vegetables on Cardiometabolic Risk Markers and Cognitive Functions
Metabolic SyndromeInflammation2 moreThe purpose of the study is to study the potential anti-inflammatory- and metabolic effects of polyphenols and dietary fibres in a product based on a mixture of several Swedish berries and vegetables that is known to have high amounts of polyphenols and other anit-oxidants. In addition the purpose is to investigate the effects on cognitive functions of the berry product.

Role of microRNAs in T Cell-Driven Inflammation in Asthma
AsthmaThis will be a single center study of asthmatic subjects and healthy controls which will investigate mechanisms of asthma through detailed molecular analysis of airway tissues and fluids. The primary goal will be investigate the role of microRNAs in Th2-driven inflammation in asthma. The investigators hypothesize that asthma is associated with abnormal expression of miRNAs in T cells which favors differentiation into Th2-cells. The investigators further hypothesize that asthma is heterogeneous based on the presence and absence of Th2-driven inflammation and that abnormalities in T cell miRNA expression will be most prominent in a subgroup with high levels of Th2-driven inflammation (as assessed using molecular markers that the investigators have previously established). Finally, the investigators hypothesize that inhaled corticosteroids will normalize the T-cell miRNA abnormalities observed in asthma, as corticosteroids treat Th2-driven inflammation. The samples collected will also facilitate the pursuit of secondary analyses designed to investigate mechanisms of inflammation and remodeling in asthma as well as molecular phenotypes of asthma.

Effects of Wood Smoke Particles on Influenza-induced Nasal Inflammation in Normal Volunteers
Response of Viral Infection to WoodsmokeThis study is focused on the pathophysiology underlying the association between exposure to particulate pollutants and risk for/response to viral infection. The investigators hypothesize that exposure to wood smoke particles (WSP) enhances influenza virus-induced granulocyte and NK cell activation, via hyaluronic acid-mediated effects on IFNg production. Oxidant stress and viral replication may also be affected. As an NIH funded ViCTER project, the purpose of the study is also to test novel assays of granulocyte activation (Doershuk lab) and lipid mediator activation (Albritton lab) which have not previously been used in this type of research. Healthy, nonsmoking adults age 18-40 years will be recruited. This is a randomized, placebo controlled study comparing NLF granulocyte responses to LAIV administered after either WSP or clean air, in normal healthy volunteers. Subjects receive either WSP or placebo (clean air), followed by a standardized dose of LAIV and serial post-infection sampling of nasal lavage fluids, nasal biopsy and blood

Effects of Aminocaproic Acid (ACA) on Rosacea-specific Inflammation
RosaceaThe purpose of this study is to determine the effect of topical aminocaproic acid on the immune system by assessing the levels of antimicrobial peptides in the skin of patients with rosacea. It is hypothesized that aminocaproic acid applied topically will alter the body's immune system in patients with rosacea by inhibiting activation of antimicrobial peptides.

The Effects of Consuming Palm Oil With Different Macronutrient Intakes on Blood Lipids
Cardiovascular DiseasesInflammationThe purpose of this study is to determine the effects of palm oil when consumed as either part of a low carbohydrate diet or a high carbohydrate diet on blood lipids, cardiovascular health and inflammation. The study will help us better understand how the quality of saturated fat and the quantity of carbohydrate interact to impact blood lipids and cardiovascular health.

Study of Experimental Models of Pain and Inflammation.
PainInflammationThe experimental pain model studied in this proposal show characteristics of an inflamed wound with a pro-inflammatory response. This study will help discover candidate genetic and/or proteomic pain biomarkers that could provide objective and mechanism based tests to diagnose, monitor or quantify pain. We also hope to determine the measurable effects of a known non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) on biomarkers of pain and inflammation.

Efficacy of Two Algae Formulations on Lipid Metabolism, Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Status...
PsoriasisOur overall goal is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of consumption of two algae formulations compared to a placebo on: degree of severity of skin lesions, plasma lipid levels, as well as other health-related markers, in individuals with clinically diagnosed psoriasis.

Effect Of Obesity On Ozone-Induced Airway Inflammation
ObesityThe purpose of this study is to compare the effect of ozone exposure on airway reactivity and inflammation in obese vs. non-obese adults.

FFA Hypertension and Inflammation in Lean and Obese Subjects
DiabetesHypertension1 moreAlthough a large number of obese patients develop high blood pressure, the cause is unknown. The purpose of this study is to look at the effect of high fatty acids (a type of fat) in the development of high blood pressure in obese people.