About EXPLAIN-IT
The EXPLAIN-IT (Exposome and Prevention of Lung diseases, An International Interdisciplinary Translational network) Clinical Research Collaboration (CRC) was launched by the European Respiratory Society (ERS) in 2025.
Chronic lung diseases (CLDs) are a major cause of illness and death in Europe, significantly reducing quality of life. They have severe societal and economic impacts, including productivity loss, increased healthcare costs, and greater effects on socio-economically deprived populations. Prevention measures, such as raising public awareness, reducing pollutant exposure, and identifying at-risk populations, can mitigate the impact of CLDs. Early detection is crucial, as CLDs often start early in life and go unnoticed for a long time. Novel biomarkers are needed to prevent CLD development and progression.
The airborne exposome, which includes all inhaled environmental exposures from conception onwards, is a key trigger for CLDs. Understanding the underlying mechanisms requires harmonised in vitro studies, integrated with clinical data and validated in vivo. Our goal is to unite patients, clinicians, and researchers to study the exposome in chronic CLDs. By gathering data, identifying biomarkers, and analysing effects, we aim to improve communication and promote healthier living.
Specific aims
The CRC EXPLAIN-IT aims specifically to:
- Create a European network of patients, clinicians and scientists and national patient and professional organisations interested in human exposome research.
- Study current research to i) create overview of existing knowledge, ii) recognise research gaps to recommend future research priorities, and iii) identify new biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring exposome-associated CLDs.
- Integrate existing databases and cohorts to assess which identified knowledge gaps can already be addressed and the applicability of the new biomarkers. This integration will also be used to reach consensus on how this new information affects understanding of the exposome’s role in CLDs.
- Investigate possible underlying biological mechanisms by which the exposome induces and progresses CLDs to design new clinical studies for which external funding will be obtained.
- Develop, together with patients, appropriate educational tools to create awareness for the exposomes impact, and thus the need for a healthy environment, in relation to CLD development and progression.
- Engage with ERS and ELF to disseminate our activities and results to ultimately contribute to European guidelines and create advisory boards on how to describe and study the exposome in relation to CLDs.
Operational aspects
To achieve the above-mentioned aims, six work packages (WPs) are being composed with the following objectives:
- WP1 Management and governance: Coordination of CRC activities, bi-monthly online meetings and annually in person, to support WPs, track progress, and ensure collaboration.
- WP2 Data inventory: Evaluation of published data on the exposome in CLDs and inventory creation to enhance knowledge and support other WPs.
- WP3 Biomarker exploration in CLDs: Identification of biomarkers associated with the airborne exposome, and correlation of biomarker levels with onset, progress and exacerbations of asthma, COPD and ILDs.
- WP4 Evaluation of mechanisms behind CLD development and progress due to the airborne exposome: Collection of data from advanced in vitro models for the identification of mechanisms and new biomarkers and evaluation of the exposome risk factors and damage mechanisms.
- WP5 Patient and public involvement: Engaging patients and the public to improve research, raise awareness about the airborne exposome’s impact on CLDs, and develop educational tools for stakeholders.
- WP6 Advocacy: Collaboration with the ERS Advocacy Council and the Environment and Health Committee, and revision of best practices of lobbying for a healthy environment.
Stakeholders
The CRC EXPLAIN-IT is composed of the CRC Chairs, experts in clinical research, Early Career Members, and patient representatives.
Contact
If you are interested in more information on the CRC EXPLAIN-IT or would like to join the network, please contact scientific@ersnet.org.
