Understanding Inflammatory Cells in Lung Scarring
Induction, fate and function of inflammatory fibroblasts
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11137802
This research aims to understand how certain inflammatory cells contribute to lung scarring, like that seen in conditions such as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137802 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our lungs can develop scarring, or fibrosis, after an injury, which is a serious problem in conditions like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. We've found special inflammatory cells, called fibroblasts, that appear early after lung injury and seem to play a role in this scarring process. By studying these cells in detail, we hope to learn how they develop and how they contribute to both inflammation and the formation of scar tissue in the lungs. This work uses advanced techniques to track these cells and understand their behavior, comparing findings in laboratory models with observations from human lung samples.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with or at risk for lung scarring conditions, such as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome or pulmonary fibrosis, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose lung conditions are not related to inflammatory fibroblasts or lung scarring may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat lung scarring and inflammation in patients with conditions like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of these inflammatory fibroblasts are still being uncovered, other studies have shown the importance of different cell types in lung injury and repair.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHEPPARD, DEAN — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: SHEPPARD, DEAN
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.
Conditions: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome