NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding harmful cells in lung scarring

Official title: Cellular and molecular delineation of pathologic fibroblasts in pulmonary fibrosis

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10885214 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at certain cells in the lungs that cause scarring in pulmonary fibrosis, and by using special techniques, researchers hope to learn more about these cells to find better ways to treat the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startJuly 10, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$248,947
NIH project number5R00HL155786-04
Project IDNIH-10885214 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, particularly those experiencing significant lung function decline.

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of lung disease or those without a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific fibroblast cells that contribute to lung scarring in pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung disease. By using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify and characterize these pathologic fibroblasts, which are responsible for excessive collagen production. The researchers have developed a unique mouse model to manipulate these cells and better understand their behavior and impact on lung function. This knowledge could lead to new therapeutic strategies to target and treat pulmonary fibrosis more effectively.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that specifically target harmful fibroblast cells, potentially improving outcomes for patients with pulmonary fibrosis.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific cell types in fibrotic diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights and advancements.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Tsukui, Tatsuya — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Tsukui, Tatsuya

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.