NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how cells communicate in COPD

Official title: Local cellular communication networks in COPD endotypes

Funded at Yale University · NIH-11067867 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how cells in the lungs of people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) communicate with each other, hoping to find new ways to treat the condition by analyzing lung tissue samples from participants.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project startApril 15, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2026
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$125,625
NIH project number5R21HL173512-02
Project IDNIH-11067867 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), particularly those with varying clinical presentations.

Less likely to help

Patients without a diagnosis of COPD or those with other unrelated respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the communication networks between cells in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, the study aims to identify abnormal cell populations and their interactions within the lung tissue. The goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind the diverse manifestations of COPD, which may lead to new therapeutic strategies tailored to individual patients. Participants may contribute to a better understanding of their condition through the analysis of their lung tissue samples.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized treatment options for patients with COPD, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cell communication in other diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights in COPD as well.

Where this research is happening

  • Yale University
    New Haven, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Sauler, Maor — Yale University
  • Study coordinator: Sauler, Maor

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.