How mechanical stretching affects lung scarring in mice
Official title: Impact of mechanical stretch on the progression of pulmonary fibrosis in mouse bleomycin model
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10791480 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stretching of the lungs during breathing affects the worsening of pulmonary fibrosis, especially in older mice, to help find better treatments for this lung condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $158,419 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AG085239-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10791480 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above, who are at higher risk for pulmonary fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pulmonary fibrosis who are younger than 65 or those with other underlying lung conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mechanical stretch in the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung condition, using a mouse model. The study focuses on understanding why certain areas of the lung are more affected by fibrosis than others, particularly in older mice. By examining the effects of lung expansion during breathing, the researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for this disease. The approach includes analyzing gene expressions and lung tissue responses to mechanical forces.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating pulmonary fibrosis in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that mechanical forces can influence lung repair and fibrosis, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Yong — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Huang, Yong
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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.