Investigating how a specific gene affects lung health and fibrosis

Mechanistic studies of the genetic contribution of desmoplakin to pulmonary fibrosis in alveolar type 2 cells

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10903825

This study is looking at how a specific gene called desmoplakin affects lung health in people with pulmonary fibrosis, aiming to learn more about how our lungs repair themselves and find better ways to treat this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10903825 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of the desmoplakin gene in pulmonary fibrosis, a condition that affects lung function. By studying how genetic variations influence the behavior of alveolar type 2 cells, which are crucial for lung repair and maintenance, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind lung diseases. The team will use advanced techniques to model these cells and analyze how changes in desmoplakin impact their function, particularly in response to injury. This could lead to insights into how to better manage or treat pulmonary fibrosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults with a genetic predisposition to pulmonary fibrosis or related lung diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with lung conditions unrelated to genetic factors or those without a history of pulmonary fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating pulmonary fibrosis, improving lung health for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic contributions to lung diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.