Understanding how lung cells become activated in fibrosis
Official title: Fibrogenic activation and memory in the lung mesenchyme
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11001577 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain cells in the lungs, called fibroblasts, get turned on and stay active in conditions like pulmonary fibrosis, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding why lung problems can get worse over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $536,436 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL166187-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001577 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 pulmonary fibrosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute lung injuries or those without a diagnosis of interstitial lung disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the activation of fibroblasts in the lungs, particularly in conditions like pulmonary fibrosis. It aims to understand how these cells can become persistently activated, leading to worsening lung conditions. By studying the role of a specific transcription factor called Runx1, the research will explore how fibroblasts remember their activated state and respond to repeated lung injuries. The approach includes using mouse models to track changes in fibroblast behavior during the progression of lung fibrosis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that fundamentally alter the course of fibrotic lung diseases, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding fibroblast activation in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tschumperlin, Daniel J. — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Tschumperlin, Daniel J.
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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.