The American Lung Association has awarded Shah S. Hussain, Ph.D., from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, with the Catalyst Award for his research on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This award is part of a $22 million investment by the American Lung Association Research Institute in lung health research over the past year. The institute funded 139 research grants, focusing on various aspects of lung disease.
Ashley Lyerly, senior director of advocacy in Alabama at the Lung Association, highlighted the importance of lung research in Alabama, noting that "nearly one million residents live with a chronic lung disease" and over 110,000 have been diagnosed with COPD in Birmingham alone. She expressed honor in welcoming Dr. Hussain to their research team.
Dr. Hussain's study focuses on understanding airway loss mechanisms in COPD and investigates genetic risk factors that may exacerbate the condition's severity. To explore early stages of COPD which are challenging to study in humans, he will use an innovative ferret model he developed.
"I am grateful for the support of the American Lung Association in advancing my research on mechanistic understanding of airway loss in COPD," said Dr. Hussain. "Our research has the potential to unlock new insights into the mechanisms behind small airway loss, ultimately improving treatment strategies for COPD patients."
The awards covered several categories related to lung diseases such as allergic respiratory diseases and respiratory health equity among others. These projects were selected through rigorous scientific peer review.
The association is now accepting applications for its 2025-2026 cycle of research awards and grants. More information about these opportunities can be found at Lung.org/awards.
