Understanding how airway cells behave in health and disease

Molecular Analysis of Airway Secretory Cells in Health and Disease

NIH-funded research Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-11268038

This study is looking at how certain cells in your lungs, called club cells, behave in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), especially how they make mucus and help repair lung tissue, which could help us find better ways to treat COPD.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, United States)
Project IDNIH-11268038 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific airway cells, particularly club cells, in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It focuses on how these cells produce mucins and their ability to regenerate alveolar tissue, which is crucial for lung health. By using advanced techniques like organoid assays, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind excessive mucus production and impaired tissue repair in COPD. This could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, particularly those experiencing small airway dysfunction or emphysema.

Not a fit: Patients with other respiratory conditions not related to COPD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve lung function and quality of life for patients with COPD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding airway cell behavior in other lung diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for COPD as well.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.