Investigating a natural compound to improve mucus clearance in cystic fibrosis
A Ginsenoside TMEM16A Potentiator for Cystic Fibrosis
This study is looking at how a natural compound from Korean Red Ginseng might help improve mucus clearance in people with cystic fibrosis by boosting the function of a specific channel in the lungs, and it aims to find out which type of this compound works best.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10769879 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the potential of ginsenosides, derived from Korean Red Ginseng, to enhance the function of a specific chloride channel (TMEM16A) that plays a role in mucus clearance in patients with cystic fibrosis. The study aims to identify the most effective ginsenoside and evaluate its impact on mucus transport and pathology in laboratory models. By using advanced techniques such as Ussing chamber and patch clamp experiments, researchers will assess how this compound can improve airway function and reduce mucus buildup in cystic fibrosis patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis who experience difficulties with mucus clearance.
Not a fit: Patients without cystic fibrosis or those whose condition is not related to mucus clearance issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve mucus clearance and respiratory function in cystic fibrosis patients.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been challenges with TMEM16A activators in clinical trials, the approach of potentiating this channel with ginsenosides is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woodworth, Bradford Alan — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Woodworth, Bradford Alan
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.