Understanding how airway glands and surface cells protect lung health
Testing the Contributions of Airway Submucosal Glands and Surface Epithelia to Lung Health
This study is looking at how certain cells in the lungs help keep our airways healthy and fight off infections, using pigs to mimic human lungs, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with asthma and COPD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061839 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the roles of airway submucosal glands and surface epithelial cells in maintaining lung health and defending against infections and irritants. By using a pig model, which closely resembles human airway structures, the study aims to determine how these components contribute to airway defenses under normal and challenged conditions. The researchers will explore the effects of pH and airway surface liquid volume on the function of these defenses, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for lung diseases like asthma and COPD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic lung conditions such as asthma, COPD, or cystic fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients with acute respiratory infections or those without chronic lung diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic lung diseases by enhancing our understanding of airway defenses.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific interplay of airway glands and surface epithelia has not been extensively studied, related research has shown promise in understanding lung defenses and developing treatments for respiratory diseases.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stoltz, David a — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Stoltz, David a
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.