Understanding MUC5B Gene Activity in Lung Scarring
Maladaptive epigenetic control of MUC5B transcription in pulmonary fibrosis
['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11132860
This project explores how a specific gene, MUC5B, becomes overactive in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a serious lung scarring condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11132860 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a severe lung disease where scar tissue builds up, making it hard to breathe. We know that a gene called MUC5B plays a big role in IPF, and a specific genetic change near this gene is a major risk factor. This project aims to uncover how MUC5B becomes overly active and contributes to the disease, especially in the small airways of the lungs. We believe that a combination of MUC5B overactivity and other changes in the lung cells makes them vulnerable to further damage, leading to scarring. By understanding these processes, we hope to find new ways to help people with IPF.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding the disease mechanisms using lung tissue samples, and future clinical trials would seek patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients without idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or those not interested in contributing biological samples for research may not directly benefit from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target the MUC5B gene or related pathways to slow down or stop the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of MUC5B in IPF is known, this project proposes a novel "two-hit hypothesis" and delves into specific epigenetic mechanisms that are less understood.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER — Aurora, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GERBER, ANTHONY N — UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
- Study coordinator: GERBER, ANTHONY N
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: Cancers