Understanding how lung cells function and repair in health and disease

Beyond the Barrier: Alveolar Epithelial Cell Biology in Health and Disease

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10671502

This study looks at the cells in your lungs that help keep them healthy and working well, especially in conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema, to find new ways to improve lung function and recovery after injury, which could lead to better treatments for respiratory issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10671502 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biology of alveolar epithelial cells, which are crucial for maintaining lung health and gas exchange. It aims to understand how these cells behave under normal conditions and how they change in diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema. By exploring the mechanisms of cell differentiation and repair, the research seeks to identify new strategies to improve lung function and recovery after injury. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better treatments for respiratory diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from lung diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or emphysema.

Not a fit: Patients with non-respiratory conditions or those without lung disease may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for lung diseases, enhancing recovery and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding alveolar epithelial cell biology, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.