Investigating how a protein affects lung cell health in chronic bronchitis
Official title: Role of Cofilin-1 in Mitochondrial Quality Control Influencing Mechanisms of Airway Epithelial Dysfunction in Chronic Bronchitis
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11103626 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called cofilin-1 and how it helps keep the lung cells healthy in people with chronic bronchitis, a type of COPD, to find new ways to help these cells heal better after injury.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $762,867 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL179134-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103626 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic bronchitis or COPD, particularly those experiencing significant lung function decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of lung disease that do not involve airway epithelial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cofilin-1, a protein that influences the health of airway epithelial cells, particularly in patients with chronic bronchitis, a form of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The study will explore how the loss of cofilin-1 affects mitochondrial function and the ability of these cells to repair themselves after injury. By using advanced cell models derived from COPD patients, the researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could restore cofilin-1 levels and improve lung cell integrity. This could lead to new treatments that enhance the health of the airway epithelium in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic bronchitis, enhancing lung function and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting mitochondrial dynamics and cellular repair mechanisms in similar conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sidhaye, Venkataramana K — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Sidhaye, Venkataramana K
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.