Understanding how Axl signaling contributes to intestinal fibrosis in Crohn's disease
Official title: The role of Axl signaling in intestinal fibrosis
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11052313 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called Axl affects the growth and movement of cells in the intestines, which could help us understand and find new ways to treat intestinal scarring that often happens in people with Crohn's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $163,825 |
| NIH project number | 1K08DK138279-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052313 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease who are experiencing complications related to intestinal fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Crohn's disease or those not experiencing intestinal fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Axl signaling in the development of intestinal fibrosis, a common complication in patients with Crohn's disease. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which AXL, a tyrosine kinase, influences cellular processes such as proliferation and migration in the intestines. By examining the interaction between AXL and its ligand GAS6 in response to inflammatory conditions, the research seeks to provide insights into the pathophysiology of intestinal fibrosis. This could lead to the identification of potential therapeutic targets for managing this condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for intestinal fibrosis in Crohn's disease patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting signaling pathways like AXL can be effective in treating fibrosis in other organs, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steiner, Calen Andrew — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Steiner, Calen Andrew
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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.