How the autonomic nervous system influences lung development
Autonomic innervation regulates alveolar formation in development
This study is looking at how the nervous system helps create tiny air sacs in the lungs that are important for breathing, and it aims to find new ways to treat lung diseases that happen when these air sacs don’t develop properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11047572 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the autonomic nervous system in the formation of alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs essential for breathing. By examining how autonomic innervation affects the growth and function of myofibroblasts, which are crucial for alveolar development, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that regulate lung formation. The researchers will utilize various experimental models to test their hypotheses about neurotransmitter release and signaling pathways involved in this process. The findings could lead to innovative treatments for lung diseases related to alveolar immaturity or loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to alveolar immaturity or loss, particularly those under 21 years old.
Not a fit: Patients with fully developed lungs or conditions unrelated to alveolar formation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that promote lung regeneration and improve outcomes for patients with lung diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the nervous system in organ development, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chuang, Pao-Tien — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Chuang, Pao-Tien
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.