Understanding how airway cell types are balanced for proper lung function

Balancing Airway Progenitor versus Progeny: a Pathway from Mitochondria

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10880283

This study is looking at how a protein called LONP1 helps keep the right balance of lung cells, which is important for healthy breathing, especially after lung injuries, and it hopes to find new ways to treat airway diseases that could help patients like you.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10880283 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the balance between progenitor cells and differentiated airway cells, which is crucial for maintaining healthy lung function. The study focuses on the role of a specific protein, Lon protease 1 (LONP1), in regulating this balance during lung development and repair after injury. By examining how mutations in LONP1 affect lung cell types, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments for airway diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained about lung health and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with airway diseases or conditions related to lung development, particularly those affected by mutations in the LONP1 gene.

Not a fit: Patients with fully developed lungs and no history of airway disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating airway diseases and improving lung health.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cell differentiation and repair mechanisms in the lungs, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Airway Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.