Research outline: This project will examine how fluctuations in ambient temperature influence systemic inflammation using UK Biobank data. We aim to replicate evidence from smaller studies showing that cold and hot weather alter inflammatory biomarkers1,2, and extend these findings in a much larger, more diverse population. The unique UK Biobank Olink dataset, which includes the Target 96 and Explore Inflammation panels (~700 unique proteins), provides high-quality proteomic measurements with extensive participant and environmental data, offering a unique opportunity to identify which inflammation-related proteins are most sensitive to temperature changes.
Research questions and aims: We will investigate (1) which specific inflammatory proteins are most strongly associated with recent temperature variation; (2) the shape and strength of these relationships over short-term (days) and medium-term (weeks to months) windows; and (3) whether associations differ by individual characteristics (e.g., age, sex, health) or environmental context (high vs. low air pollution).
Scientific rationale: Extreme heat and cold increase health risks, but the biological pathways remain unclear. Temperature stress may trigger systemic inflammation. Prior studies support this: colder weather was linked to higher levels of inflammatory proteins1, and some biomarkers responded to heat 2, but these studies were limited in size and scope. Leveraging the scale and diversity of UK Biobank Olink data, we can detect subtle temperature-biomarker associations, validate previous findings, and identify vulnerable subgroups. These insights will advance understanding of climate-related health impacts and links to outcomes such as cardiovascular events, kidney dysfunction, and other inflammation-driven conditions, informing strategies to protect at-risk populations.
1. Ni, W., et al. Environ Sci Technol. DOI:10.1021/acs.est.3c00302
2. Sun, B., et al. Environ Res. DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2025.122382