Developing a gene editing therapy for cystic fibrosis using airway stem cells

A universal genome editing strategy to develop an airway stem cell therapy for cystic fibrosis

NIH-funded research Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-10909248

This study is exploring a new way to help people with cystic fibrosis by using gene editing to fix the genetic problems in airway stem cells taken from the sinuses, with the hope of improving lung function and reducing infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909248 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new therapy for cystic fibrosis (CF) by using gene editing techniques to correct mutations in airway stem cells. The approach involves extracting stem cells from the sinuses, where they are more accessible, and using advanced gene editing tools to fix the genetic defects that cause CF. By correcting these mutations, the goal is to improve lung function and reduce the frequency of respiratory infections in patients. This innovative method aims to provide a more effective and lasting treatment option for individuals with CF.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, particularly those with the common F508del mutation.

Not a fit: Patients with cystic fibrosis who do not have genetic mutations that can be corrected by this gene editing approach may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking therapy that significantly improves lung health and quality of life for cystic fibrosis patients.

How similar studies have performed: While gene therapy for cystic fibrosis has been attempted in the past, this specific approach using sinus-derived stem cells and advanced gene editing techniques is novel and has not been widely tested.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Airway DiseaseAirway infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.