Current Asthma Research Programs
Clinical research is critical to understanding diseases and improving treatment methods. Over the years, clinically based studies conducted at National Jewish Health have led to new and improved treatments for a number of respiratory, allergic, and immune diseases.
For more than 80 years, National Jewish Health has been conducting research. We are rated among the top 10 independent biomedical research centers. National Jewish Health is committed to continuing our role as a leading research institution in the world by continually updating and increasing our technology and capabilities.
What is a clinical trial/study?
A clinical research trial uses volunteers to answer specific questions about a medication. These studies help medical researchers and pharmaceutical companies develop new and improved therapies for human diseases. People choose to participate for a variety of reasons; furthering science, to obtain medical care or education about their disease, or to gain access to highly sought after physicians or specialist. Patients may be paid for their participation in studies.
Before an experimental medication is tested in humans the FDA must approve an Investigations New Drug Application (IND). If the FDA feels the drug appears safe enough to be tested on humans (based on previous lab tests), the first phase (Phase I) of advanced drug development begins. This phase usually involves testing the drug on normal adults, then adults with the disease targeted by the drug to determine the safety of the drug at various doses. Phase II of the trial is where the effectiveness and safety of the drug is tested over a range of doses. The purpose of the Phase II study is to determine whether the drug is effective compared with a placebo, and if so what the optimal dose might be. Phase III studies are performed to identify the safety and effectiveness of long-term treatment. Once Phase III is complete the FDA reviews the data collected during the trials. If the drug is found to be safe and effective the FDA approves it. Post marketing or Phase IV trials may be performed after a drug is approved to determine the best way to use the new medication.
Participate in a Clinical Trial
If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial, please fill out our Patient Study Application. The CRU performs several studies at a time and your information will help us determine for which studies you may be a candidate. Click below for information about specific asthma studies currently taking place:
- Pediatric Research Studies - These studies focus on asthma in children, and are seeking participants under the age of 18.
- Adult Research Studies - These studies are looking for participants that are adults, as well as some children age 12 and older.
