Targeting a specific amino acid transporter to treat lung fibrosis

Targeting the Amino Acid Transporter SLC7A5 for Treatment of Pulmonary Fibrosis

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11059394

This study is looking at how a specific protein called SLC7A5 affects lung scarring in people with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), with the hope of finding new treatments that could help improve lung function and quality of life for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059394 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the amino acid transporter SLC7A5 in the progression of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a severe lung disease. The study aims to understand how SLC7A5 influences the behavior of fibroblasts, which are cells that contribute to lung scarring. By exploring the mechanisms of amino acid transport and its effects on cell signaling pathways, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies that could slow down or reverse fibrosis. Patients may benefit from potential new treatments that target this transporter to improve lung function and quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis who are experiencing rapid disease progression.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of lung disease or those who do not have a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve outcomes for patients with pulmonary fibrosis.

How similar studies have performed: While targeting amino acid transporters is a novel approach in the context of pulmonary fibrosis, similar strategies have shown promise in other fibrotic diseases.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.