Investigating the role of WNT7A signaling in lung scarring
Official title: Targeting WNT7A Signaling in Pulmonary Fibrosis
Funded at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-10856695 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the lungs might make a molecule that could worsen idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and by understanding this, researchers hope to find new ways to help improve lung health and quality of life for people with IPF.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $787,266 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL172990-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10856695 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of lung disease or those without a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a severe lung condition that leads to scarring and loss of lung function. The study aims to understand how certain cells in the lungs, known as basal-like cells, contribute to the progression of IPF by producing a signaling molecule called WNT7A. By examining human lung samples and using genetically modified mouse models, researchers will explore how targeting WNT7A could help restore lung function and reduce scarring. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic strategies that could improve their lung health and quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve lung function and quality of life for patients with pulmonary fibrosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar signaling pathways for treating lung diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Dianhua — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Dianhua
Related research
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-
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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.