UC Davis has launched a major wildfire smoke health study to investigate the biological mechanisms behind smoke-related illnesses. Supported by a $14.05 million grant from the National Institutes of Health, the WE-CAIR program brings together 22 investigators to analyze how smoke exposure affects the immune system, epigenome, and cardiovascular health as global exposure rates rise.
What is the wildfire smoke health study?
The WE-CAIR program is a five-year research initiative focused on understanding the long-term health effects of wildfire smoke. By examining immune and epigenetic pathways, researchers aim to identify biological markers of risk and develop new prevention strategies. The study addresses why some individuals are more susceptible to health decline, providing critical data to improve clinical treatments for populations frequently exposed to poor air quality.
How will researchers analyze smoke exposure?
The team will integrate four distinct projects using clinical studies and controlled exposure models to track the entire chain of impact. Investigators will study how smoke triggers inflammatory responses in the body and how factors like psychosocial stress influence health outcomes. This multidisciplinary approach combines bioinformatics and molecular research to create a comprehensive understanding of how wildfire smoke drives chronic disease over time.
