Understanding how lung cells age and contribute to lung fibrosis
Official title: Regulation and Mechanisms of Transitional Epithelial Cell Senescence in Lung Fibrosis
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11031291 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how lung cells age and change after an injury, especially in conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), to find ways to help lungs heal better and prevent scarring, which could be helpful for patients dealing with lung issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $43,244 |
| NIH project number | 5F32HL172379-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031291 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with interstitial lung diseases, particularly those with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute lung injuries that do not progress to fibrosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the aging of lung cells, particularly focusing on how transitional epithelial cells behave after lung injury. By using both animal models and cell cultures, the research aims to uncover the processes that lead to cell senescence and fibrosis in conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve lung repair and function. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how lung injuries heal and how to prevent or reverse fibrosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance lung repair and reduce fibrosis in patients with lung diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular senescence and its role in lung diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ting, Christopher — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Ting, Christopher
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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.