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Exposure to biodiesel exhaust is less harmful than exposure to mineral diesel exhaust on blood-brain barrier integrity in a murine model

Emerging data suggest that air pollution is a persistent source of neuroinflammation, reactive oxygen species, and neuropathology that contributes to central nervous system disorders. Previous research using animal models has shown that exposure to diesel exhaust causes considerable disruption of the blood-brain barrier, leading to marked neuroinflammation. 

Transcriptomic analysis of primary nasal epithelial cells reveals altered interferon signalling in preterm birth survivors at one year of age

Many survivors of preterm birth (<37 weeks gestation) have lifelong respiratory deficits, the drivers of which remain unknown. Influencers of pathophysiological outcomes are often detectable at the gene level and pinpointing these differences can help guide targeted research and interventions. This study provides the first transcriptomic analysis of primary nasal airway epithelial cells in survivors of preterm birth at approximately 1 year of age.

Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS IIIA) mice have increased lung compliance and airway resistance, decreased diaphragm strength, and no change in alveolar structure

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA (MPS IIIA) is characterized by neurological and skeletal pathologies caused by reduced activity of the lysosomal hydrolase, sulfamidase, and the subsequent primary accumulation of undegraded heparan sulfate (HS). Respiratory pathology is considered secondary in MPS IIIA and the mechanisms are not well understood. 

Respiratory and chest wall mechanics in very preterm infants

Data on static compliance of the chest wall (Ccw) in preterm infants are scarce. We characterized the static compliance of the lung and Ccw to determine their relative contribution to static compliance of the respiratory system in very preterm infants at 36 wk postmenstrual age. We also aimed to investigate how these compliances were influenced by the presence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and impacted breathing variables.

Wastewater-based epidemiological surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 new variants BA.2.86 and offspring JN.1 in South and Southeast Asia

Anthony Kicic BSc (Hons) PhD Head, Airway Epithelial Research; WA Cystic Fibrosis Research Collaborative Program Fellowship; Stan Perron Charitable

Cohort profile: The WAACHS Linked Data Study

Despite the volume of accumulating knowledge from prospective Aboriginal cohort studies, longitudinal data describing developmental trajectories in health and well-being is limited.

Longitudinal effects of prenatal exposure to plastic-derived chemicals and their metabolites on asthma and lung function from childhood into adulthood

Environmental exposure to phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), chemicals used in the production of plastics, may increase risk for asthma and allergies. However, little is known about the long-term effects of early life exposure to these compounds.

Our research

The Wal-yan Respiratory Research Centre conducts research into a wide range of childhood respiratory disease areas.

When ‘vape-free’ should mean ‘smoke-free’: third-hand e-cigarette residues and the developing lung

E-cigarettes are widely perceived as a safer alternative to tobacco, and that perception often extends to their use around infants and children. Yet exhaled aerosol deposits onto indoor surfaces, leaving a residue, known as third-hand e-cigarette aerosol, that can be re-emitted, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. The developmental consequences of such exposure have been almost entirely unexplored.

International Society of Pediatric Respiratory Diseases (INSPiRED) call to action: A Global Ban on Electronic Cigarette Sales to Protect our Children's Future

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have become a leading form of nicotine use among children and adolescents worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 15 million young teenagers currently use these products. Contrary to early claims regarding reduced harm, e‑cigarettes expose users to a range of toxic substances, including carcinogens and, increasingly, synthetic nicotine compounds and other psychoactive agents.