Understanding how the lung's environment affects airway cell health
Official title: Extracellular Matrix Regulation of Airway Epithelial Homeostasis
Funded at University of Vermont & St Agric College · NIH-10951279 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the support structure around lung cells affects their health and ability to heal, especially for people with COPD, to help find new ways to treat lung diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Vermont & St Agric College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Burlington, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $203,974 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HL175617-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951279 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other airway diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute respiratory infections or those without any airway diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in maintaining the health and repair of airway epithelial cells, which are crucial for lung function. The study focuses on how the physical properties of the ECM, such as its composition and stiffness, influence the behavior of basal epithelial cells, particularly in the context of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By using innovative cell culture techniques that mimic the natural environment of the lungs, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that regulate cell growth and differentiation. This knowledge could lead to new therapeutic strategies for lung diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve lung health and repair mechanisms in patients with airway diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the extracellular matrix in cell behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Vermont & St Agric College
Burlington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weiss, Daniel J — University of Vermont & St Agric College
- Study coordinator: Weiss, Daniel J
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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.