Understanding how certain cells regenerate in the lungs after injury

Molecular control of a novel transitional cell state in alveolar regeneration

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10656356

This study is looking at how lung cells heal after injury, especially focusing on a special type of cell that helps with recovery, and it aims to understand how certain factors guide this healing process, which could help people with lung conditions like COPD and pulmonary fibrosis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10656356 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind lung cell regeneration, particularly focusing on a newly identified transitional cell state that plays a crucial role in the healing process after alveolar injury. Using advanced techniques like organoids and single-cell transcriptomics, the study aims to uncover how specific transcription factors influence the differentiation of lung cells during recovery. By examining the pathways involved in DNA damage and repair, the research seeks to provide insights into the cellular changes that occur in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and pulmonary fibrosis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or pulmonary fibrosis.

Not a fit: Patients with acute lung injuries or those not diagnosed with chronic lung diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving lung regeneration and treating chronic lung diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cellular regeneration mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on the transitional cell state is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.