How lung cells change their energy use after injury

Metabolic reprogramming of Alveolar Type 2 cells in response to lung injury

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11065458

This study is looking at how lung cells change their energy use when they get hurt, especially in people with a rare lung condition called Hermansky Pudlak syndrome type 1, to see how a specific gene affects their ability to heal and find new ways to help treat lung diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11065458 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how lung cells, specifically alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells, adapt their energy metabolism in response to lung injury, particularly in patients with a rare lung disease called Hermansky Pudlak syndrome type 1. The study aims to understand the role of a specific gene (HPS1) in regulating the energy processes of these cells and how its loss affects lung repair mechanisms. By using various cell models and mouse models, the researchers will explore the relationship between mitochondrial function and the ability of lung cells to repair themselves after injury. This could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for lung diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Hermansky Pudlak syndrome type 1 or those experiencing similar lung injury conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with lung conditions unrelated to mitochondrial dysfunction or those not affected by alveolar type 2 cell damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance lung repair and improve outcomes for patients with lung injuries.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of investigating mitochondrial function in lung repair is relatively novel, similar research in other organs has shown promising results in understanding cellular metabolism and repair mechanisms.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.