Investigating how macrophages help lungs heal using a lab-created lung model
The Role of Macrophages in Pulmonary Regeneration using a Bioengineered Whole Lung Tissue Model
This study is looking at how special immune cells called macrophages help heal lung tissue damaged by diseases like COVID-19 and pulmonary fibrosis, using a lab-made lung model to see how these cells work with lung cells to promote healing, which could lead to better treatments for lung conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888309 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of macrophages, a type of immune cell, in the healing process of lung tissue affected by diseases like COVID-19 and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Using a bioengineered lung model that mimics natural lung tissue, researchers will study how these macrophages interact with lung cells to promote regeneration. The approach involves isolating macrophages from rats and observing their effects on lung cell behavior in a controlled environment, which avoids complications seen in live animal studies. The goal is to understand how macrophages can influence lung repair and potentially improve treatment strategies for lung diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from lung diseases characterized by fibrotic remodeling, such as COVID-19 or idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients with non-fibrotic lung conditions or those not experiencing significant lung damage may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance lung healing and function in patients with severe lung diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that macrophages can positively influence tissue regeneration in engineered models, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Greaney, Allison Marie — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Greaney, Allison Marie
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.