The role of sex hormones in microbiome-dependent effects on pulmonary response to ozone

Sex hormones affect the gut microbiome, and we have established that male sex hormones, specifically androgens, affect ozone-induced airway hyperresponsiveness in mice. Taken together, these data support our hypothesis that the observed sex differences in ozone-induced airway responsiveness are due to sex hormone-dependent effects on the gut microbiome. To test this hypothesis, we will transfer the gut microbiome from castrated or control (sham castrated) male mice into germ free female mice that lack microbes and male levels of androgens. After these new gut microbial communities are established, we will expose the mice to ozone and measure airway hyperresponsiveness.