Understanding how lung cells sense their environment in fibrosis
Mechanosensing in lung fibrosis
['FUNDING_R01'] · GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11137682
This project aims to understand how lung cells sense their surroundings and how this contributes to scarring in a serious lung condition called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137682 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe lung disease where scar tissue builds up, making it hard to breathe. We know that stiff areas of scar tissue are linked to worse outcomes, and aging is a big risk factor. This project explores how cells in the lung sense the stiffness of their environment and how this process changes with age, contributing to fibrosis. We are using advanced 3D lab models that mimic healthy and diseased lung tissue, along with studies in aged mice, to learn more about these mechanisms. Our goal is to uncover new ways to stop or slow down the scarring process in IPF.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) who are interested in the underlying causes of their condition and future treatment possibilities.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical trial participation would not directly benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target how lung cells sense their environment, potentially slowing or stopping the progression of lung scarring in IPF.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific interplay between mechanosensing and aging in IPF is not fully understood, other studies have shown that targeting cellular pathways involved in scarring can be a promising approach.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GARCIA, ANDRES J — GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: GARCIA, ANDRES J
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 below.