How a protein affects lung injury caused by silica dust
Official title: Regulation of Silica-induced Lung Injury by Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler · NIH-10370063 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how silica dust can harm your lungs and how a protein called PAI-1 might be involved in that damage, with the hope of finding better ways to prevent or treat lung diseases like silicosis for people who work in industries like mining and construction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tyler, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $404,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21ES032506-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10370063 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to silica dust in occupational settings, such as miners or construction workers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung diseases not related to silica exposure may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind lung injuries caused by exposure to silica dust, which is common in industries like mining and construction. It focuses on the role of a protein called plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and its relationship with inflammatory responses and cell damage in the lungs. By studying these interactions, the research aims to uncover new insights into the development of lung diseases such as silicosis. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how to prevent or treat these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for lung diseases caused by silica exposure.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been research on silica-induced lung injury, the specific focus on the interplay between PAI-1, IL-17A, and autophagy in this context is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
Tyler, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shetty, Sreerama — University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
- Study coordinator: Shetty, Sreerama
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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.