Investigating how telomeres affect immunity and outcomes in lung transplant recipients

The Role of Telomeres in Lung Transplant Recipient Immunity and Outcomes

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11084363

This study is looking at lung transplant patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to see how certain gene changes affect their immune system and the chances of their new lungs being accepted, with the goal of finding ways to help them live healthier, longer lives after their transplant.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11084363 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on lung transplant recipients, particularly those with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), to understand how mutations in telomere maintenance genes influence their immune response and transplant outcomes. The study aims to explore the relationship between telomere length, immune system function, and the risk of organ rejection. By analyzing patient samples and immune responses, researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that could improve transplant survival rates for these patients. The findings could lead to better management strategies for lung transplant recipients with telomere-related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are lung transplant recipients, particularly those diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and identified telomere maintenance gene mutations.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone lung transplantation or those without telomere-related genetic mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved survival rates and better management of lung transplant recipients with telomere-related immune issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding telomere biology can significantly impact immune responses and transplant outcomes, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.