Understanding how fungi contribute to lung cancer development
Official title: Deciphering the Role of Mycobiome (Fungus) in Lung Carcinogenesis
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11050210 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of fungus called Aspergillus fumigatus might contribute to lung cancer by using a special 3D model made from human cells, so we can better understand how it affects lung health and whether it can lead to cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $569,229 |
| NIH project number | 1R37CA289715-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11050210 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of lung cancer or those at high risk for developing lung cancer, particularly if they have been exposed to fungal pathogens.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have lung cancer or are not at risk for lung cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of fungi, specifically Aspergillus fumigatus, in the development of lung cancer using a novel 3D lung model created from human stem cells. By exposing lung cells to fungal spores, researchers can observe how these interactions lead to DNA damage and mutations associated with cancer. The study aims to uncover whether fungi can directly cause malignancy or influence the immune response in a way that promotes cancer progression. This innovative approach provides a more realistic environment to study the effects of fungal infections on lung health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the prevention and treatment of lung cancer by targeting fungal infections.
How similar studies have gone: While research on the role of fungi in cancer is limited, preliminary studies have shown promising results in understanding their impact on lung cancer development.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Joyce Huanhuan — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Chen, Joyce Huanhuan
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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.