Investigating immune cells involved in lung disease related to systemic sclerosis
Pathways regulating profibrotic macrophages in a novel explant model of systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10887841
This study is looking at how certain immune cells affect lung problems in people with systemic sclerosis, hoping to find new ways to treat or manage the lung scarring that can happen with this condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10887841 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how immune and inflammatory cells contribute to lung disease in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). By analyzing lung tissue samples from patients, the study aims to identify specific cellular and molecular changes that lead to fibrosis, a serious complication of SSc. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like single cell RNA sequencing to explore gene expression patterns in various cell types, particularly macrophages and fibroblasts. The goal is to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could help manage or treat this debilitating condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with systemic sclerosis who are experiencing interstitial lung disease.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of lung disease not related to systemic sclerosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve lung function and quality of life for patients with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting immune pathways in similar conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LAFYATIS, ROBERT A. — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: LAFYATIS, ROBERT A.
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.