Targeting aging lung cells to reverse chronic lung scarring
Targeting Senescence Specific Mechanisms of NF-κB Activation to Reverse Chronic Pulmonary Fibrosis
This project tests a new flavonoid compound designed to clear harmful aged lung cells and reduce scarring in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11296851 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
IPF lungs accumulate senescent (aged) lung fibroblasts that drive progressive scarring and breathing problems. The research team created a novel senolytic flavonoid called F-4N that selectively kills these aged fibroblasts while sparing immune cells. They saw promising results in aged mice with chronic, bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis and found the compound blocks NF-κB signaling in senescent fibroblasts. The project will study the molecular mechanisms behind this effect and develop the approach toward safe ways to clear senescent cells in people with IPF.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, particularly those with ongoing or progressive lung scarring, would be the most likely candidates for future trials of this therapy.
Not a fit: People without IPF, those whose lung disease is primarily from other causes, or patients with very advanced, irreversible lung damage may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce lung scarring and improve breathing and quality of life for people with IPF by removing harmful aged cells driving fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical work on senolytic compounds has shown promise in cells and animal models, but human clinical evidence for reversing IPF remains limited.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haak, Andrew Jon — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Haak, Andrew Jon
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 below.