Investigating how lung cells can be transformed to reduce fibrosis.
Official title: Lung Myofibroblast De-Differentiation and Fibrosis Resolution Depend on cAMP-mediated Inhibition of HuR.
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11042171 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to change harmful lung cells back to a healthier state in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) by exploring a substance called cAMP, which might help improve treatment options and outcomes for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $169,560 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL163178-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042171 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or those experiencing significant lung fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of lung disease that do not involve myofibroblast activity or fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how lung myofibroblasts, which contribute to the deadly condition idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), can be transformed back to a less harmful state. The approach involves studying the role of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in regulating the behavior of these cells, particularly how it influences their ability to undergo de-differentiation and apoptosis. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that could help resolve lung fibrosis and improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reverse lung fibrosis and improve respiratory function in patients with IPF.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting cellular mechanisms for fibrosis resolution, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fortier, Sean Michael — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Fortier, Sean Michael
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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.