The aim of the project is to understand what is in the air, how it affects the human body and how society can use this knowledge to improve health and preparedness. Gunilla Westergren-Thorsson, professor of Lung Biology, is leading the project together with colleagues at Umeå, Gothenburg and Stockholm Universities. The project is clearly multidisciplinary – ranging from physiology, pathology, technology, mathematics and social sciences to clinical medicine – and examines the air from several perspectives: from measuring biomarkers in the blood to putting air quality on the agenda of decision-makers.
Understanding the composition and impact of air
Clean air is crucial for health. Today, the air contains many particles – such as viruses, pollen, plastic particles and other pollutants – and researchers still do not fully understand what all this does to the body. At the same time, we live in a world where chemical and biological substances can be spread both intentionally and unintentionally, which makes it even more important to know what is in the air.
“Technically, we are working to measure what is in the air and how it affects the body, from the airways down into the tissue,” says Gunilla Westergren-Thorsson.
Using advanced technology from national infrastructures such as MAX IV and SciLifeLab, researchers will track particles in the air down into the lungs and tissues.
Technically, we are working to measure what is in the air and how it affects the body, from the airways down into the tissue.
A long-term vision within the project is to develop wearable sensors.
“In the longer term, the goal is to develop the next generation of wearable sensors as part of a personal health system. By combining real-time data from the body with environmental data and AI-based analysis, users can receive predictive advice, such as warnings before asthma symptoms occur or recommendations when the risk of infection increases during the flu season. In future pandemics, the technology could enable personalised guidance,” continues Gunilla Westergren-Thorsson.
Air safety and preparedness
But the project is not just about everyday health – it is also about extreme events in which the air can quickly become life-threatening. One challenge is that people do not often think of air as something dangerous.
One example is the 9/11 attacks, when large amounts of dust were released into the air, leading to an increase in respiratory diseases. Similar risks exist in war and in situations where biological substances are spread – very small amounts can have enormous consequences. Therefore, preparedness and tools to detect changes in the composition of the air are needed.
The project started in 2025. Out of approximately 190 applications, 40 were selected. The project has received SEK 1.2 million to build the network and continue developing a larger application. The next step is international review, after which certain projects may be invited to submit a full application, with a decision expected in the autumn.
“Air and water are fundamental to life. Both are resources we cannot live without, and both face major challenges. That is why this project is both necessary and crucial for future health and preparedness,” concludes Gunilla Westergren-Thorsson.
