Targeting specific lung cells to reduce scar tissue from silica exposure
Official title: Targeted Death of Collagen1a1-Expressing Fibroblasts Reduces Silica-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10929390 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether getting rid of specific cells that make collagen can help stop lung scarring from silica exposure, and it could lead to new treatments for people with silicosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $34,395 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HL170750-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929390 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with silicosis or other forms of pulmonary fibrosis characterized by excessive collagen deposition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a history of silica exposure or those with other unrelated lung conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how eliminating certain fibroblast cells that produce collagen can help stop the progression of lung scarring caused by silica exposure. The study uses a mouse model to trace and identify these collagen-producing fibroblasts and assess their role in fibrosis. By selectively targeting and removing these cells, the researchers aim to determine if this approach can effectively halt the worsening of lung disease. Patients with conditions like silicosis may benefit from insights gained through this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce lung scarring and improve respiratory health in patients exposed to silica.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific fibroblast populations in fibrosis, suggesting that this approach could be effective, although this specific targeting strategy may be novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Foster, Daniel G — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Foster, Daniel G
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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.