Aging-related DP1 signaling and immune control of lung metastases
DP1 receptor signaling in aging-associated immune dysfunction in lung metastases
This project explores whether blocking DP1 signaling can boost lung immune defenses and slow tumor spread in older people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11096673 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work looks at how age-related increases in PLA2G2D and the DP1 receptor weaken lung immune responses and allow metastatic tumors to grow. Researchers use mouse models of lung metastasis, genetically modified mice missing PLA2G2D or DP1, and lab studies of lung immune cells to track effects on dendritic cells, inflammasome activation, and γδ-T cells. They also test a DP1-blocking drug (Asapiprant) that showed benefit in aged mice with viral infection and is being studied in humans. The team aims to map the signaling steps that could be targeted to restore immune control of lung metastases in older patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Older adults whose cancer has spread to the lungs, especially patients with melanoma lung metastases, would be the most likely candidates for related future treatments or trials.
Not a fit: People with cancers not driven by the PLA2G2D/PGD2-DP1 pathway, those with only early localized tumors, or patients who cannot tolerate immune-modulating drugs may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to new treatments that restore immune function in older patients and reduce growth of cancer in the lungs.
How similar studies have performed: Related mouse studies reversed age-related mortality from SARS-CoV-2 and DP1 blockers like Asapiprant showed benefit in mice and are now in phase II human trials, but applying this approach to lung metastases is novel.
Where this research is happening
Louisville, United States
- University of Louisville — Louisville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, Jian — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Zheng, Jian
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.