Understanding Airway Repair with Stem Cells
Biology of Submucosal Gland Stem Cells in the Airway
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11333400
This research explores how special stem cells in our airways help repair damage, especially for people with conditions like asthma.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11333400 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our airways have tiny glands that contain special "reserve" stem cells, which are like repair kits for the airway lining. While these cells are known to help in the windpipe, we believe they play a much broader role in larger airways for humans and other mammals, especially when disease is present. This project aims to discover which specific gland cells are involved in repairing the airway and how certain signals, called Wnt signals, control their behavior after an injury. By understanding these processes, we hope to learn how to encourage these cells to better repair damaged airways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to adults aged 21 and older who have airway diseases like asthma.
Not a fit: Patients without airway diseases or those not interested in basic biological discoveries may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to help the airways heal themselves in people with chronic lung conditions.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon six previous cycles of successful funding, indicating a well-established and progressing line of inquiry into airway biology.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ENGELHARDT, JOHN F — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: ENGELHARDT, JOHN F
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