Understanding how loss of certain lung cells affects aging and emphysema risk
Official title: Mesenchymal Vascular Progenitor Depletion Promotes Lung Aging and Susceptibility to Emphysema
Funded at National Jewish Health · NIH-11017855 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the lungs, called mesenchymal vascular progenitors, change as we age and how their loss might lead to lung problems like emphysema, especially in people who smoke, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve lung health for older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | National Jewish Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $896,400 |
| NIH project number | 5R35HL161238-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017855 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those at risk for or suffering from lung diseases such as emphysema.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any lung-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mesenchymal vascular progenitors (MVPC) in lung aging and the development of emphysema. It aims to understand how the depletion of these cells contributes to vascular remodeling and increased susceptibility to lung diseases. By using both in vivo and in vitro models, the research will explore the regulation of MVPC function in healthy and aged lungs, as well as the consequences of their loss in various conditions, including exposure to cigarette smoke. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies to restore lung function and improve health outcomes for aging individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve lung health and reduce the risk of emphysema in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of progenitor cells in lung health, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
National Jewish Health
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Majka, Susan M — National Jewish Health
- Study coordinator: Majka, Susan 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.