Investigating how specific airway cells contribute to cystic fibrosis lung disease
Conducting Airway Cellular Targets Required for Complementation of CF Lung Disease
This study is looking at how certain cells in the lungs, called ionocytes and ciliated cells, work in people with cystic fibrosis, to see if making sure they have the right CFTR protein can help prevent lung problems and improve treatments for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10892143 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the roles of different airway cells, particularly ionocytes and ciliated cells, in cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease. Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to uncover how these cells express the CFTR protein and their importance in airway function and disease progression. By employing genetic ferret models that closely mimic human CF lung disease, researchers will explore whether the expression of CFTR in these cells is crucial for preventing lung complications associated with CF. The findings could lead to better-targeted gene therapies for patients with CF.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, particularly those experiencing lung complications.
Not a fit: Patients without cystic fibrosis or those with other unrelated respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved gene therapies that specifically target the cellular mechanisms involved in cystic fibrosis lung disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding CFTR functions in airway cells, but this specific approach using genetic ferret models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Engelhardt, John F — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Engelhardt, John F
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.