Using cell therapies to treat lung scarring in pulmonary fibrosis
Adapting cell-based therapies for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis
This study is testing a new treatment for pulmonary fibrosis that uses specially designed immune cells to help stop lung scarring, and patients may have the chance to join trials to see how well it works and if it's safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001114 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel treatment for pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung disease that causes scarring and stiffening of lung tissue. The approach involves using engineered T cells, known as CAR-T cells, to specifically target and inhibit the cells that contribute to fibrosis. By combining these T cells with a drug delivery system, the goal is to release a potent inhibitor that can prevent the progression of the disease while minimizing side effects. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in trials that test the safety and effectiveness of this innovative therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis who are not eligible for lung transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage pulmonary fibrosis or those who have other underlying lung conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, targeted treatment option for patients suffering from pulmonary fibrosis, potentially improving their quality of life and extending survival.
How similar studies have performed: While CAR-T cell therapy has shown success in treating certain cancers, its application in pulmonary fibrosis is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whitty, Caroline — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Whitty, Caroline
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.