Investigating how PUMA contributes to lung damage from smoking

The role of PUMA in the progression of cigarette smoking-induced COPD

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10930186

This study is looking at how a protein called PUMA affects lung damage and inflammation in people with COPD caused by cigarette smoke, with the goal of finding new ways to help prevent or treat the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10930186 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called PUMA in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused by cigarette smoke. It examines how cigarette smoke exposure leads to different types of cell death in lung tissues and how this contributes to inflammation and lung damage. By studying lung cells from patients and animal models, the research aims to identify new treatment targets that could help prevent or treat COPD. The approach includes analyzing the effects of PUMA on cell death and inflammation in lung epithelial cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of cigarette smoking who are experiencing symptoms of COPD.

Not a fit: Patients who have never smoked or have other unrelated lung conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that better manage or prevent COPD in smokers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting cell death mechanisms in lung diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
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.