TMEM16A, a protein that affects mucus and breathing in airway disease
TMEM16A in human airway disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11306694
Finding out whether boosting the TMEM16A channel with its partner CLCA1 can make mucus easier to clear and help people with mucus-blocking airway diseases like cystic fibrosis and some forms of asthma.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11306694 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will map which TMEM16A versions (isoforms) are present in diseased human airways and measure how they work. They will use human airway models, including cystic fibrosis samples and 3-D airway tissue systems, to see how CLCA1-driven TMEM16A activity changes mucus thickness and movement. Biophysical and structural methods will be used to understand exactly how CLCA1 potentiates TMEM16A at the molecular level. The team aims to link molecular findings to mucus properties that matter for breathing and potential drug design.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with mucus-obstructive airway diseases—especially those with cystic fibrosis or severe asthma and ongoing mucus problems despite current treatments—would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without mucus-obstructive airway conditions or whose breathing problems are caused by non-mucus issues are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could point to new therapies that improve mucus clearance and breathing for people with cystic fibrosis, asthma, and other mucus-obstructive airway diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory studies have shown CLCA1 can boost TMEM16A activity, but using that mechanism as a therapy for mucus-blocking lung disease is a relatively new approach and has not yet been proven in patients.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BRETT, THOMAS JOHN — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: BRETT, THOMAS JOHN
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.
Conditions: Airway Disease