Understanding how specific proteins assemble in the lungs and other tubular organs
Official title: Cell-type specific assembly of apical extracellular matrices
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10895309 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins come together to form important structures in organs like the lungs and intestines, using tiny worms to help us understand these processes better, which could eventually help us learn more about diseases like COPD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32GM151778-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10895309 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to tubular organ dysfunction, such as COPD or other lung diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-tubular organ diseases or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to conditions studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the assembly of apical extracellular matrices (aECMs) in tubular organs like the lungs and intestines using the model organism C. elegans. By studying how specific proteins localize and interact within these matrices, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that govern their formation. The project utilizes advanced imaging techniques to visualize these processes in live organisms, providing insights into the cellular biology of organ development. This could lead to a better understanding of diseases related to these organs, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of organ development and lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases affecting tubular organs.
How similar studies have gone: Similar research approaches have shown promise in understanding organ development and disease mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schmidt, Helen Frances — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Schmidt, Helen Frances
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.