Targeting Fibroblast Activation Protein to Improve Organ Transplant Outcomes

Fibroblast Activation Protein as a Potential Diagnostic and Therapeutic Target to Treat Chronic Allograft Dysfunction

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11059630

This study is looking at how a specific protein affects the health of transplanted organs and is testing new treatments that could help prevent organ rejection by targeting harmful cells, so if you've had an organ transplant, you might have the chance to participate in trials for these promising therapies.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059630 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of fibroblast activation protein (FAP) in chronic allograft dysfunction, which is a major cause of organ transplant failure. The approach focuses on developing therapies that can target and deplete harmful fibroblasts that contribute to fibrosis in transplanted organs. By utilizing innovative techniques such as FAP-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, the research aims to halt the progression of fibrosis and improve transplant longevity. Patients may be involved in clinical trials that assess the effectiveness of these new therapies in preventing organ rejection.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone organ transplantation and are experiencing or at risk for chronic allograft dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who have not received an organ transplant or those with acute rejection issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved survival rates and quality of life for organ transplant recipients by reducing the incidence of chronic rejection.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies targeting fibroblast activation protein have shown promise in pre-clinical settings, indicating potential for success in clinical applications.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Conditions Cancers
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.