Investigating the immune cell interactions that contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Understanding Dysregulated Crosstalk Between Regulatory T Cells and Lung Dendritic Cells in the Pathogenesis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10879084

This study is looking at how specific immune cells in the lungs of people with COPD work together, with the goal of finding new treatments that could help slow down lung damage, and we’d love to have patients help by sharing their samples or information.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10879084 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how certain immune cells, specifically regulatory T cells and lung dendritic cells, interact in the lungs of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to the progression of COPD, which is often caused by factors like smoking. By examining the changes in these immune cells, the researchers hope to identify potential immunotherapy strategies that could halt the decline in lung function. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help elucidate these immune interactions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, particularly those with a history of smoking.

Not a fit: Patients with COPD who do not have a history of smoking or those with other unrelated lung conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new immunotherapy treatments that slow or stop the progression of COPD.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining the crosstalk between Tregs and dendritic cells in COPD is novel, similar immunotherapy strategies have shown promise in other inflammatory diseases.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.