Center Affiliation and Expertise: Associate Center Member, Inflammation and Innate Immunity Research Thematic Area
Dr. Stapleton researches the biological impacts of air pollution exposure on respiratory outcomes in distinct cohorts (COPD, biomass-induced lung injury, sarcoidosis). The lab focuses on the in vitro effects of combustion and bioaerosol particulate on epithelial response including antimicrobial peptide production, and integrity of the airway barrier. They have also assessed exposure mitigation strategies including reduced PM2.5 exposure through air purifier intervention, and the effect of in vitro vitamin D supplementation, which increases antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin production and airway bacterial killing and decreases sodium absorption across the epithelium. The lab also seeks to decrease the environmental impact of science through various initiatives.
Bibliography: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/emma.stapleton.1/bibliography/public/