Investigating how lung cell dysfunction contributes to pulmonary fibrosis using patient-specific stem cells
Utilizing induced pluripotent stem cells to study the role of alveolar type 2 cell dysfunction in pulmonary fibrosis
This study is looking at how certain lung cells that aren't working properly might lead to pulmonary fibrosis, using special cells from patients to create a model that helps us understand the problem better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11002022 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of alveolar type 2 (AT2) cell dysfunction in the development of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) by utilizing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from patients. The researchers will create a model system that mimics human lung cells to study how these dysfunctional cells contribute to the fibrotic process. By examining the mechanisms involved, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating PF. The findings will be validated using animal models to ensure relevance to human disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis or related interstitial lung diseases, particularly those with specific genetic variants.
Not a fit: Patients with pulmonary fibrosis caused by factors unrelated to alveolar epithelial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for pulmonary fibrosis, improving outcomes for patients with this condition.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using patient-specific iPSC models to study various diseases, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alysandratos, Konstantinos — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Alysandratos, Konstantinos
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 below.