Biomarkers and disease drivers in lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Molecular Biomarkers in pathogenesis of Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM)
This project looks for molecular markers and targets in people with lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) to help improve diagnosis and treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11159435 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You will see researchers focused on a gene regulator called HMGA2 that they believe helps drive LAM. They will measure HMGA2 and related pathway genes in laboratory models and in human-derived samples to see if levels match disease presence or severity. The team will test genetic and drug-based ways to block the HMGA2 pathway in preclinical models to see if that reduces tumor-like growth. Results will be used to explore new diagnostic markers and possible treatment targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people diagnosed with LAM or with unexplained cystic lung disease who can provide medical histories and allow clinicians to collect blood or tissue samples.
Not a fit: People without LAM, those whose disease is driven by other pathways, or those unable to provide samples may not directly benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to tests that help diagnose or predict LAM and identify new treatment targets.
How similar studies have performed: mTOR inhibitors help some patients and prior animal and molecular studies link HMGA2 to LAM, but targeting HMGA2 in humans is a relatively new approach with limited clinical proof.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: D'armiento, Jeanine M — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: D'armiento, Jeanine M
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.