Understanding how cells interact in lung scarring
Cellular crosstalk and molecular mechanisms in the initiation and progression of pulmonary fibrosis
This project explores how cells in the lung communicate and change, leading to the scarring seen in pulmonary fibrosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11118674 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Pulmonary fibrosis involves repeated lung injury and abnormal cell signals, but we don't fully understand what causes lung cells to multiply excessively and create too much scar tissue. This project looks at how specific lung cells, called alveolar epithelial type-1 (AT1) cells and PDGFRA-expressing fibroblasts, interact to either prevent or cause scarring. We are learning how a protein called PDGFA from AT1 cells helps keep fibroblasts healthy and how another protein, RUNX1, increases when scarring begins. By understanding these cell interactions and proteins, we hope to uncover the root causes of lung scarring.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with pulmonary fibrosis, or those at risk, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this foundational understanding.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat pulmonary fibrosis by targeting the specific cell changes that cause lung scarring.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on recent findings from the research team, suggesting a novel approach to understanding the cellular origins of pulmonary fibrosis.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tata, Purushothama Rao — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Tata, Purushothama Rao
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.