Understanding how airway cells contribute to early COPD detection and progression
Official title: Airway Basal Progenitor Dysfunction in the Detection, Progression and Pathogenesis of Early COPD
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10900774 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in your lungs might help spot early signs of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) before you even feel symptoms, so we can find better ways to diagnose and treat the condition early on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $694,181 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL164555-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900774 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include smokers or former smokers, particularly those over 40 years old, who may be at risk for developing COPD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have never smoked or those with advanced COPD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of airway basal progenitor cells in the early detection and progression of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It aims to identify vulnerable individuals who may develop COPD before traditional symptoms appear, focusing on how these progenitor cells function in lung health and repair. By studying the cellular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to develop new methods for early diagnosis and intervention, potentially altering the disease's course. Patients may be monitored through various assessments, including lung function tests and biopsies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better management of COPD, improving quality of life for patients at risk.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of airway cells in lung diseases, but this specific approach to early COPD detection is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vandivier, Richard W — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Vandivier, Richard W
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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.