Iron and scar-forming cells in the lungs (IPF)
Official title: The Role of Iron In Pulmonary Fibrosis
Funded at Oklahoma State University Stillwater · NIH-11559120 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are exploring how iron in the lungs may drive the scarring seen in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and whether this could lead to new therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stillwater, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $55,670 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HL157450-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11559120 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or related chronic lung disease may benefit from future therapies arising from this work.
✕Less likely to help
The study itself does not involve patient participation and may not benefit all IPF patients directly.
What this research studies
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a serious lung disease with limited treatment options. This project looks at how iron accumulation in lung cells called fibroblasts may cause them to become overactive and contribute to scarring. Using existing findings about iron-regulated genes, the team aims to uncover the molecular steps that link iron to lung fibrosis. The work involves studying human-like cell models and mechanisms in the lungs to identify potential targets for therapy. The ultimate goal is to inform the development of treatments that can slow or halt IPF progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal new targets to treat IPF by reducing iron-driven lung scarring.
How similar studies have gone: Earlier work suggests iron can accumulate in the lung and contribute to fibrosis, with preliminary genes identified as regulators, indicating potential but still early-stage results.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
Stillwater, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Lin — Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- Study coordinator: Liu, Lin
Related research
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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.