Genes and blood proteins linked to early lung scarring (early pulmonary fibrosis)
Genetic and Genomic Characterization of the Occurrence and Progression of Interstitial Lung Abnormalities
This project looks for gene changes and blood protein patterns that show early lung scarring in adults so we can spot disease sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11238090 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, researchers will compare genetic information and blood proteins from people with early lung changes on chest scans to find patterns tied to future scarring. They will combine data from large groups and lab tests to pinpoint which pathways drive early pulmonary fibrosis. The team will look for protein signals that rise in people with high-risk genetic profiles and test whether combining gene and protein data improves prediction. The goal is to develop better early markers so doctors can monitor and treat people before severe lung damage develops.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults—especially people aged 65 and older—who have interstitial lung abnormalities on chest imaging or are considered at risk for pulmonary fibrosis.
Not a fit: People without lung abnormalities on imaging, children, or those with long-established advanced pulmonary fibrosis are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could produce genetic or blood tests that detect early pulmonary fibrosis and enable earlier monitoring or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have found overlapping genetic signals and some promising protein markers, but predictive tests remain limited and need stronger, combined gene-protein evidence.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hunninghake, Gary Matthew — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Hunninghake, Gary Matthew
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.