Understanding Lung Problems Linked to Cell Aging
Mechanisms of Telomere-Mediated Lung Disease
This research helps us understand how aging cells in the lung contribute to serious lung conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
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-11182726 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our lungs rely on special cells that can repair themselves, but as we age, these cells can become damaged or 'senescent.' This damage, often linked to the ends of our chromosomes called telomeres, can make the lungs more vulnerable to injury. This project specifically looks at a key lung cell type, the type II alveolar epithelial cell (AEC2), which appears to be lost with age and in diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). By studying these cells in detail, we hope to uncover how their decline leads to progressive lung scarring.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: While this foundational laboratory research does not directly involve patient participation, future clinical studies stemming from this work may seek individuals with lung conditions related to cell aging, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients whose lung conditions are not related to cell aging or telomere dysfunction may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat severe lung diseases, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, by targeting the aging processes within lung cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this research group has shown connections between telomere dysfunction, cell aging, and lung injury, providing a strong foundation for this current investigation.
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.