Understanding how aging and metabolic issues affect lung cell function in pulmonary fibrosis
Official title: Aging and Metabolic Dysfunction Drive Disrupted Alveolar Epithelial Progenitor Function in Pulmonary Fibrosis
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10984729 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging and changes in metabolism affect important lung cells in people with pulmonary fibrosis, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve lung health for those living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $162,540 |
| NIH project number | 1K99HL171946-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984729 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, particularly those experiencing significant lung function decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pulmonary fibrosis who are not of advanced age or who have other underlying conditions unrelated to metabolic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of aging and metabolic dysfunction in the failure of specific lung cells, known as alveolar epithelial progenitor cells, in patients with pulmonary fibrosis. By studying both animal models and human stem cells, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to the deterioration of these cells, which are crucial for lung health. The approach includes examining how metabolic changes over time affect cell function and contribute to the progression of this serious lung disease. The findings could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for improving lung function in affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve lung function and quality of life for patients with pulmonary fibrosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the cellular mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rodriguez, Luis R — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Rodriguez, Luis R
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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.