Targeting lung cells to reverse fibrosis

Localizing Therapeutics to Target Lung Myofibroblasts and Reverse Fibrosis

NIH-funded research Proteogenomics Research Instit/sys/ Med · NIH-10999371

This study is testing a new way to deliver medicine directly to the lungs to help people with lung scarring from conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, aiming to reduce the damage and promote healing.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionProteogenomics Research Instit/sys/ Med NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10999371 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new method to deliver antifibrotic drugs directly to lung tissue, specifically targeting myofibroblasts, which are key contributors to lung scarring in conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The approach involves using a precision drug delivery system that can bypass barriers in the vascular endothelium, ensuring that a higher concentration of the drug reaches the affected areas in the lungs. By using unique immunotherapeutics, the goal is to block the processes that lead to fibrosis and promote healing in lung tissues. Patients may benefit from this innovative treatment if it proves effective in reversing lung scarring.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or other related lung diseases characterized by fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients with lung diseases that do not involve fibrosis or those who are not diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a groundbreaking treatment option that reverses lung fibrosis rather than just slowing its progression.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been advancements in targeted drug delivery systems, this specific approach to targeting myofibroblasts in lung tissue is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.