Investigating how MIF and CD74 contribute to emphysema development
Official title: Role of MIF and CD74 in the pathogenesis of emphysema
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11009031 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called MIF might help protect lung cells from damage caused by smoking, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent or treat emphysema for people who are affected by this lung condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2021 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $616,334 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL155948-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009031 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of smoking who are at risk for developing emphysema or those already diagnosed with the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not smoke and have no risk factors for emphysema may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) and its receptor CD74 in the development of emphysema, a severe lung condition often caused by smoking. The study aims to explore how MIF can protect lung cells from damage due to cigarette smoke and oxidative stress, which are key factors in the progression of emphysema. By examining the cellular responses to these harmful substances, the researchers hope to identify potential therapeutic targets that could help prevent or treat emphysema in patients. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and genetic studies in mice to uncover the protective mechanisms of MIF.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow the progression of emphysema in patients, particularly those affected by chronic smoking.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting MIF and its pathways for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
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Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sauler, Maor — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Sauler, Maor
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Precision phenotyping of emphysema in the elderly: a study in diverse adults
Researchers will look at CT scans and lung tests in older adults to understand different forms of emphysema and how they relate to health outcomes.
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Lithium as a potential disease-modifying treatment for emphysema using a precision approach
A low-dose lithium approach is being studied to slow or modify emphysema in smokers who have COPD.
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Imaging and multi-omics to find subtypes of emphysema in COPD
This project looks for molecular subtypes of emphysema in COPD by combining imaging with blood and tissue data to improve understanding and treatment options.
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Precision phenotyping of emphysema in the elderly: the MESA Lung Study
Aging adults with or without COPD-related symptoms may benefit from a new study that maps subtypes of emphysema on CT scans to better predict health risks.
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E-cigarette use and emphysema risk in young adults (VapeScan)
A study to understand whether vaping or traditional cigarettes cause early lung damage in young adults.
-
Loss of lung blood-vessel stem cells that may speed lung aging and raise emphysema risk
Researchers will look at how losing a type of lung blood-vessel progenitor cell may make lungs age faster and increase emphysema risk in adults.
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.