Understanding how to activate a key enzyme to help heal lung fibrosis
Official title: Activation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 is essential to overcome failed fibrosis resolution
Funded at National Jewish Health · NIH-11047698 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called MMP-9 helps heal lung scars in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and aims to find out why it doesn't work properly in these patients, with the hope of discovering new treatments to help improve lung health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | National Jewish Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $610,880 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL173030-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047698 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or other forms of interstitial lung disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with lung conditions unrelated to fibrosis or those who do not have interstitial lung diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in the healing process of lung fibrosis, particularly in conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The study aims to understand why MMP-9, which is crucial for breaking down scar tissue in the lungs, is not activated in patients with IPF. By exploring the molecular pathways that inhibit MMP-9 activation, the researchers hope to identify new therapeutic targets that could enhance the body's ability to resolve fibrosis and improve lung function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments aimed at promoting lung repair.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve lung function and quality of life for patients with interstitial lung diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting similar molecular pathways can lead to significant improvements in fibrosis resolution, indicating a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
National Jewish Health
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Redente, Elizabeth Frances — National Jewish Health
- Study coordinator: Redente, Elizabeth Frances
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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.