Understanding how cGAS-STING helps heal lung tissue
Official title: Elucidating the Role of cGAS-STING in Lung Tissue Repair and Remodeling
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11017801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific pathway in the body might help repair lung tissue in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a serious lung disease, to find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $520,642 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL166807-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017801 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or related lung diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung conditions unrelated to fibrosis or those who do not have a diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in the repair and remodeling of lung tissue affected by idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a severe lung disease with no known cause. By studying a specific mouse model, the researchers aim to understand how DNA damage in lung cells triggers inflammation and fibrosis. The project will explore the molecular mechanisms involved, particularly focusing on the interaction between cGAS-STING and other proteins that may influence lung healing. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from IPF.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve lung function and quality of life for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the cGAS-STING pathway in other contexts, but this specific application to lung tissue repair is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ridge, Karen M — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Ridge, Karen M
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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.