Chinese researchers have developed a new a circulating exosomal proteomic biomarker signature that may aid in the diagnosis of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in combination with computed tomography. Exosomes may contribute to lung disorders by carrying cargoes that promote inflammatory responses in immune and lung epithelial cells. The assay was performed in a case-control biomarker study; exosomes from 168 serum samples were extracted and submitted to proteomic analysis.

Despite having lower smoking habits than other groups in the U.S., Black Americans are more likely to develop lung cancer, and their survival rates are significantly worse. What explains this disparity? Scientists at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have analyzed the genetics of their African ancestry in search of risk genes related to the disease and tobacco use. The results reveal new risk factors and confirm the presence of genetic variants that may contribute to the greater impact of lung cancer in this population.

Deficiencies in interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), a protein that normally regulates the immune response, causes mild but persistent inflammation. However, its absence also provides an unexpected advantage by increasing resistance to viral infections. Inspired by this condition and using mRNA technology, scientists at Columbia University and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have developed a broad-spectrum antiviral platform.

Mycobacterium abscessus, a nontuberculous mycobacterium, is a significant cause of chronic pulmonary infections, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or structural lung conditions, such as cystic fibrosis.

Equillium Inc. has entered into a definitive securities purchase agreement with health care investors that will provide up to $50 million in gross proceeds to Equillium. The private placement will enable the company to advance its selective aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) modulator EQ-504 into the clinic.