Fungi in the lungs and their possible link to lung cancer
Deciphering the Role of Mycobiome (Fungus) in Lung Carcinogenesis
Researchers are testing whether common lung fungi cause DNA damage and immune changes in human lung tissue that could help lung cells become cancerous, which matters for people at risk of lung cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11238988 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses lab-grown 3D human lung tissue made from stem cells to mimic real airways and lung lining. The team exposes that tissue to live fungal spores such as Aspergillus fumigatus to model direct contact and colonization. They will measure DNA damage, look for cancer-linked mutations, and track immune signals like IL-33 and other type 2 cytokines. The aim is to determine if fungi can promote malignancy directly by causing mutations or indirectly by reshaping immune responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with lung cancer, chronic airway fungal colonization, or those at higher risk for lung cancer (for example long-term smokers) would be most relevant for follow-up or related clinical efforts.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers or health issues unrelated to the lungs or airway fungi are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If confirmed, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat lung cancer by targeting airway fungi or the immune changes they cause.
How similar studies have performed: Early laboratory work, including preliminary data from this team, has shown fungal spores can cause DNA damage and immune changes, but clinical evidence in humans is still limited and the approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Joyce Huanhuan — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Chen, Joyce Huanhuan
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.