How lung cell mechanics affect metabolism in pulmonary fibrosis
Mechanotransduction regulation of cellular metabolism in pulmonary fibrosis
This study is looking at how stiff lung tissue and high levels of lactate affect people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), with the hope of finding new ways to help manage the disease by understanding how certain lung cells behave.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10887055 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between lung cell mechanics and metabolism in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a progressive lung disease. The study focuses on how increased stiffness in lung tissue and elevated lactate levels contribute to the worsening of fibrosis. By examining lung fibroblasts from both healthy and IPF patients, the researchers aim to understand the role of the mechanoreceptor Piezo2 in driving metabolic changes that exacerbate the disease. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or those with non-fibrotic lung conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of lung disease unrelated to fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel treatments that slow down or reverse the progression of pulmonary fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in fibrotic diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomas Freeberg, Margaret — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Thomas Freeberg, Margaret
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.