Understanding how lung tissue stiffness affects cell movement in lung injury and fibrosis
Targeting durotaxis in lung injury and fibrosis
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-11001507
This study is looking at how the stiffness of lung tissue affects the movement of certain cells that play a role in lung injury and scarring, with the goal of finding new treatments for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) that could help patients like you.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11001507 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how lung tissue stiffness influences the movement of cells involved in lung injury and fibrosis, particularly focusing on fibroblasts. It aims to identify the molecular signals that guide these cells to areas of injury, which can lead to the formation of scar tissue in the lungs. By studying the mechanics of cell migration in response to varying stiffness levels, the research seeks to uncover potential new treatments for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative antifibrotic therapies targeting these mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or those experiencing significant lung injury.
Not a fit: Patients with lung conditions unrelated to fibrosis or those who do not have significant lung injury may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively prevent or reduce lung scarring in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell behavior in response to tissue mechanics, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MEDOFF, BENJAMIN DAVID — MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: MEDOFF, BENJAMIN DAVID
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.