Fine-tuning airway beta-2 receptors to improve asthma breathing
Allosteric modulation of beta2- adrenoceptors in the treatment of asthma
This project creates small molecules that tweak the beta-2 receptor so people with asthma can get stronger, longer-lasting relief from tight airways.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11308323 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use computer modeling to find new binding sites on the beta-2 receptor and design small molecules that bind those spots. They test these molecules on human airway smooth muscle cells and in airway tissue (including human and mouse samples) to see whether they boost the helpful relaxation signal while avoiding pathways that cause worsening symptoms. The team combines database screening, lab biochemistry, and functional airway tests to pick the best candidates. Promising compounds would be refined as potential new inhaled medicines for asthma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with asthma who rely on beta-agonist inhalers but have poor control, frequent rescue use, or reduced response to current bronchodilators.
Not a fit: People without asthma or whose breathing problems are driven mainly by non-bronchoconstrictive causes (for example, purely allergic or structural issues) are unlikely to benefit from these receptor-targeted drugs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to inhaled drugs that keep bronchodilators working longer and reduce side effects like tolerance and worsening asthma.
How similar studies have performed: Related laboratory and animal studies of biased agonists and allosteric modulators have shown promise, but clear proof-of-benefit in people is still limited.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Thomas Jefferson University — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deshpande, Deepak a — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Deshpande, Deepak a
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.