Understanding how IL-6 helps lung cells resist cell death

Bcl-2 dependent fibroblast resistance to apoptosis occurs through persistent IL-6 signaling

NIH-funded research National Jewish Health · NIH-10985897

This study is looking at how a protein called IL-6 helps lung cells survive longer, which could lead to new treatments for people with progressive lung diseases like pulmonary fibrosis.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNational Jewish Health NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Denver, United States)
Project IDNIH-10985897 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in helping lung fibroblast cells resist programmed cell death, a process known as apoptosis. By examining how IL-6 increases the expression of the BCL-2 protein, which prevents cell death, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic strategies to target this pathway. The ultimate goal is to develop treatments that could halt or reverse progressive pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung condition. Patients with fibrotic lung diseases may benefit from the findings of this research as it seeks to improve their treatment options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with progressive pulmonary fibrosis or other fibrotic lung diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with non-fibrotic lung conditions or those not affected by pulmonary fibrosis may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively treat or reverse progressive pulmonary fibrosis in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting apoptosis pathways in other diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach in treating pulmonary fibrosis.

Where this research is happening

Denver, 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.