Investigating how fibrosis affects cancer outcomes in scleroderma patients

Targeting fibrosis to change cancer outcomes

NIH-funded research University of Cincinnati · NIH-11174594

This study is looking at how lung scarring and cancer are connected in people with scleroderma, especially as they get older, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve treatment for these patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Cincinnati NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-11174594 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the relationship between fibrosis and lung cancer in patients with scleroderma, a chronic autoimmune disease. It explores how aging and the presence of senescent cells contribute to increased fibrosis and cancer risk. The study employs various methodologies, including animal models, to investigate the molecular mechanisms linking fibrosis and cancer progression. By examining specific signaling pathways, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with scleroderma, particularly those who are older and at increased risk for lung cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of scleroderma or those who do not have significant fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce cancer risk and improve survival rates for scleroderma patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a strong link between fibrosis and cancer in other contexts, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, 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.
Conditions Anti-Cancer Agents
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.