Investigating a protein's role in lung fibrosis

Bromodomain-containing Protein 4 in Profibrotic Gene Expression and Lung Fibrosis

NIH-funded research Old Dominion University · NIH-11017828

This study is looking at how a protein called Brd4 affects the genes that make lung scarring worse in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and by blocking Brd4, researchers hope to find a new way to help improve lung health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOld Dominion University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Norfolk, United States)
Project IDNIH-11017828 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a serious lung disease characterized by changes in gene expression due to epigenetic alterations. The study aims to understand how bromodomain-containing protein 4 (Brd4) influences the expression of genes that contribute to fibrosis in the lungs. By inhibiting Brd4, researchers hope to reduce the activity of these profibrotic genes, potentially offering a new therapeutic approach. The methodology involves examining chromatin accessibility and gene expression changes in response to Brd4 inhibition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of lung disease or those without a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reduce lung fibrosis and improve patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting epigenetic mechanisms for treating fibrosis, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Norfolk, 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.