Understanding how specific lung cells evolve into cancer due to smoking.

Elucidating the evolution of Krt8+ alveolar cells to Kras-mutant lung preneoplasia and cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-10897085

This study is looking at how certain lung cells change early on when someone is at risk of developing lung cancer, especially from smoking, to find new ways to help prevent or treat the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10897085 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the early changes in lung cells that lead to lung adenocarcinomas, particularly focusing on the role of Krt8+ alveolar cells in the progression from normal lung tissue to cancerous lesions. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify molecular and immune changes associated with tobacco exposure and how these contribute to the development of lung cancer. The goal is to uncover potential targets for early intervention and treatment, which could significantly improve outcomes for patients at risk of lung cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of smoking who are at risk for developing lung cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who have never smoked or have non-lung-related cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and more effective treatments for lung cancer in smokers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lung cancer development through similar cellular and molecular approaches.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Causing Agents, Cancer Genes, Cancer-Promoting Gene, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.