Investigating a new type of cell in the human airway

Functional interrogation of a novel SCGB3A2+/SFTPB+ cell in the human airway

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11065460

This study is looking at a special type of cell in the lungs called Fetal Airway Secretory (FAS) cells to learn how they develop and what they do, which could help us understand lung health better and find new ways to treat lung conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11065460 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on a newly identified cell population in the human lung known as Fetal Airway Secretory (FAS) cells, which have a unique gene expression profile. The study aims to understand how these cells differentiate and their potential roles in the airway. Using advanced techniques like single cell RNA sequencing and in vitro models, researchers will explore the signaling pathways that regulate these cells and their contributions to lung development. This could provide insights into airway biology and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions affecting the airway or those interested in lung health, particularly related to developmental biology.

Not a fit: Patients with established lung diseases that do not involve airway development or differentiation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for respiratory conditions by enhancing our understanding of airway cell development and function.

How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of FAS cells is novel, similar approaches in studying airway biology have shown promise in understanding lung development and diseases.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.