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Study Background

Innate immunity is the process by which white blood cells and other parts of the immune system sense and respond to potential infections by causing an inflammation. Researchers are interested in studying how the body responds to certain environmental factors, and whether the body’s response can contribute to chronic illnesses or diseases such as asthma and certain types of cancer.

The study will involve one 60-minute visit at the NIEHS Clinical Research Unit (CRU) in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, and volunteers will be compensated for their time. If eligible, participation includes a review of your medical and family history, collection of vital signs, and a blood draw.

Eligibility Criteria

Enrolling by invitation only.

  • Current participant in the Environmental Polymorphism Registry (EPR)
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Male or nonpregnant female
  • Participants must be able to understand and provide written informed consent to participate in the study
  • Willing to fast (with the exception of water) from midnight prior to the study visit
  • Ability to travel to the Clinical Research Center (CRU) in North Carolina
  • Healthy volunteers as defined by the International Red Cross guidelines (Healthy means that an individual feels well and can perform normal activities. If the individual has a chronic condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, healthy also means that they are being treated and the condition is under control).

Principal Investigator

Michael B. Fessler, M.D.
Michael B. Fessler, M.D.
Acting Clinical Director and Chair - Clinical Advisory Committee (CAC);
Chief, Immunity, Inflammation, and Disease Laboratory and Principal Investigator
Tel 984-287-4081
[email protected]
P.O. Box 12233
Mail Drop D2-01
Durham, NC 27709
Stavros Garantziotis, M.D.
Stavros Garantziotis, M.D.
Tenure Track Investigator; Immunity, Inflammation, and Disease Laboratory
Tel 984-287-4412
Fax 919-541-9854
[email protected]
P.O. Box 12233
Mail Drop CU-01
Durham, NC 27709