Mapping cell and tissue changes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

Genomic Analysis of Tissue and Cellular Heterogeneity in IPF

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11118884

This project maps which cells and molecular signals change in the lungs of people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to pinpoint what drives scarring.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11118884 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

The team uses high-resolution single-cell and spatial profiling to chart which cell types and signals appear in scarred versus less-affected lung regions in people with IPF. They analyze human lung tissue from surgeries, transplants, or biopsies and combine imaging with molecular data so each cell's location is known. Advanced computer methods are used to build a detailed map of how cellular networks break down and how abnormal repair spreads across the lung. Results aim to reveal the sequence of events and key signals that could be targeted by future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Adults diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis who can provide lung tissue samples (for example during biopsy, surgery, or transplant) or who agree to join a tissue-donation program are the best candidates.

Not a fit: People without IPF or those who cannot or prefer not to donate lung tissue are unlikely to get direct benefit from participating, and any new treatments would take time to develop.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to specific cell types or signals to target with new therapies that slow or stop lung scarring in IPF.

How similar studies have performed: Previous bulk and single-cell mapping studies have revealed new cell populations and molecular patterns in IPF, but turning those discoveries into proven treatments remains early and experimental.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.