Understanding how airway cells develop and work
Development and function in mucociliary epithelia
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11097214
This project looks at the tiny cells lining our airways to understand how they form and function, which is important for people with breathing problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11097214 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our airways are protected by a special lining called the mucociliary epithelium, which acts as a first defense against things we breathe in. When the tiny hair-like structures, called cilia, on these cells don't beat correctly, it can lead to various airway diseases. This work explores the molecular details of how these ciliated cells develop and how their motor proteins, which make the cilia beat, are put together and transported. By identifying new proteins and understanding their roles, we hope to gain a deeper insight into these essential cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients with genetic or acquired airway diseases caused by problems with ciliary function.
Not a fit: Patients without airway diseases related to mucociliary function may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a more detailed understanding of the cellular and genetic causes of airway diseases, potentially guiding future treatments.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon previous discoveries by the same team regarding novel organelles involved in motor protein assembly, indicating a progressive line of successful inquiry.
Where this research is happening
AUSTIN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN — AUSTIN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WALLINGFORD, JOHN B — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
- Study coordinator: WALLINGFORD, JOHN B
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 below.
Conditions: Airway Disease