Understanding how telomere problems lead to lung disease
Mechanisms of Telomere-Mediated Lung Disease
This study is looking at how problems with the protective ends of our DNA, called telomeres, can affect lung health, especially in conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, to help us understand how lung cells can heal and find new ways to treat lung diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10979967 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of telomere dysfunction in lung diseases, particularly focusing on how it affects lung epithelial cells and their ability to repair. The team has developed a model that mimics chronic lung conditions, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, by studying the loss of specific lung cells over time. By mapping these cells throughout their lifespan and examining their behavior during injury, the research aims to uncover new insights into lung disease mechanisms and potential treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic lung diseases, particularly those with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with acute lung injuries or those without chronic lung conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve lung function and repair mechanisms in patients with chronic lung diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomere dysfunction and its implications in other diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alder, Jonathan K. — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Alder, Jonathan K.
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.