Understanding MUC5B and early lung scarring
Targeting early events in MUC5B-driven lung injury and fibrosis
This work explores how a protein called MUC5B contributes to lung injury and scarring, aiming to find new ways to help people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11132867 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies naturally produce a protein called MUC5B, but too much of it in the wrong places in the lungs can lead to damage and scarring, similar to what happens in conditions like pulmonary fibrosis. This project looks closely at how this excess MUC5B causes lung cells to become vulnerable and die, which then triggers the formation of cysts and scar tissue. We are using both laboratory models and human lung cells to understand these early steps, hoping to discover how to stop this process before severe scarring develops.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients experiencing lung injury, scarring, or conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis where MUC5B plays a role.
Not a fit: Healthy individuals or those with lung conditions unrelated to MUC5B misexpression and fibrosis may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce lung scarring and honeycomb cyst formation in patients with chronic lung diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While much is known about lung scarring, this project focuses on the specific early role of MUC5B, building upon existing knowledge to explore novel mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riches, David W. — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Riches, David W.
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.