Understanding how integrin αvβ6 activates TGF-β to develop treatments for lung fibrosis
Official title: Conformational regulation of TGF-β activation by integrin αvβ6
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10863879 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein helps activate a key factor that contributes to lung scarring, with the hope of finding new treatments that can help people with lung fibrosis without interfering with the body's normal functions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $783,795 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL165175-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10863879 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with lung fibrosis or related fibrosing lung diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung conditions not related to fibrosis or those who do not have a diagnosis of fibrosing lung disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of integrin αvβ6 in activating TGF-β, a key factor in lung fibrosis. By focusing on the mechanisms of TGF-β activation, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that selectively target the harmful effects of TGF-β without disrupting its essential functions. The study employs advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy to visualize the interactions between TGF-β and integrins, which could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from fibrosing lung diseases. The ultimate goal is to provide insights that could pave the way for novel therapies in a condition that currently lacks effective treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, targeted therapies for patients with lung fibrosis, improving their quality of life and treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting TGF-β activation pathways, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nishimura, Stephen L — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Nishimura, Stephen L
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.