Two researchers from Chicago have been awarded grants by the American Lung Association Research Institute for their innovative projects. Sergejs Berdnikovs, PhD, from Northwestern University-Chicago, received the Emerging Respiratory Pathogen Award. Meanwhile, Nan Sethakorn, PhD, from Loyola University of Chicago, was honored with the Lung Cancer Discovery Award.
Dr. Berdnikovs' research focuses on how metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, type 1 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome influence the body's response to severe viral infections like coronavirus. His team aims to explore metabolic dysregulation in airway epithelial cells to enhance preparedness for future pandemics.
Dr. Sethakorn's project targets specific lung cancer therapies by recreating the bone environment to identify factors that promote lung cancer growth in bones. The team plans to test new treatments and identify blood markers indicating patients at risk for bone metastasis before routine scans can detect it. The results are intended for use in future clinical trials.
The American Lung Association Research Institute announced a total research investment of $22 million over the past year, funding 139 research grants aimed at identifying, treating, and curing lung disease. "In 2024, the American Lung Association is celebrating 120 years of funding lifesaving research," said Danielle Trojanek, executive director at the Lung Association. "Here in Illinois, lung research is critical because more than 1.5 million residents are living with lung disease."
Awards were distributed across various categories addressing multiple aspects of lung disease including Allergic Respiratory Diseases Award and Innovation Award among others.
Research projects funded by the association undergo rigorous scientific peer review and cover a broad range of complex issues related to lung health.
Applications for the 2025-2026 research awards and grants cycle are currently being accepted by the Lung Association.
For further details about active research funding opportunities or information about grant awardees and the entire American Lung Association Research Team visit their website.
