Finding new ways to treat lung scarring (pulmonary fibrosis)
Targeting WNT7A Signaling in Pulmonary Fibrosis
This project aims to find new treatments for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung scarring condition, by focusing on specific cells and a protein called WNT7A.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11142968 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe lung disease where scar tissue builds up, making it hard to breathe. We've found that certain "basal-like" cells, which are usually stem cells in the airway, are expanded in IPF lungs and may play a harmful role. These cells seem to produce too much of a protein called WNT7A, which can worsen scarring and prevent lung repair. Our goal is to understand how WNT7A contributes to IPF and explore ways to block its effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis could potentially benefit from future therapies developed from this research.
Not a fit: Patients with lung conditions other than idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that reduce lung scarring and improve lung function for people with IPF.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds on preliminary findings about basal-like cells and WNT7A in IPF, suggesting a novel therapeutic approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Dianhua — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Dianhua
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.