Understanding how MUC5B gene control affects lung scarring (IPF)
Official title: Maladaptive epigenetic control of MUC5B transcription in pulmonary fibrosis
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11377009 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This grant explores how changes in gene regulation lead to high MUC5B levels and lung scarring in IPF, with potential implications for patients living with this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $339,217 |
| NIH project number | 5P01HL162607-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11377009 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or at risk due to regulatory variants like rs35705950, and suitable tissue donors.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without IPF or related airway disease may not benefit directly.
What this research studies
Researchers will study how epigenetic changes and the MUC5B gene behave in the airways of people with and without IPF to identify what goes wrong in the disease. They will examine the proximal and distal airway epithelia to understand how MUC5B transcription is controlled and how a second injury might worsen the condition. The project uses human lung tissue samples and advanced sequencing techniques to map regulatory regions and transcription factors involved. Findings could point to new targets for therapies that prevent or slow fibrosis in IPF patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal targets to modulate MUC5B expression and improve treatment strategies for IPF.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has linked MUC5B regulation to IPF risk, but the exact epigenetic mechanisms remain to be clarified.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gerber, Anthony N — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Gerber, Anthony N
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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.