Program in Lung Regeneration and Repair
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The IRM Program in Lung Regeneration and Repair works closely with the departments of medicine, cell and developmental biology, and the School of Engineering and Applied Science.
The program seeks to understand the regenerative qualities of the lungs and how they can be applied in a clinical environment. Lung disease is one of the leading causes of death in this country, and the need to identify new treatments and therapies is imperative within the field of medicine.
INNOVATIVE RESEARCH
Research has shown that components of the lung have regenerative qualities, but much is still unknown.
Areas of research within the program include:
♦ Defining pathways responsible for proper lung regeneration and repair
♦ Focusing on identifying cells within the lung that facilitate both development and regeneration
♦ Collaborating with engineering partners to study the cell interactions required for proper expansion and engraftment of lung tissue
ADVANCEMENTS IN MEDICINE
The potential to impact lung disease with research in regeneration and repair is growing. Recent advances have begun to identify cells that are activated upon adult lung injury. Researchers are investigating how to generate stem cells outside of the body so they can one day generate lung tissue. Scientists are identifying specific molecules that guide the formation of lung tissue.
| "Research in lung regeneration may have the potential to develop new treatments and cures for asthma, COPD, emphysema, lung cancer and other related lung disorders.” |
| Edward E. Morrisey, Ph.D., Scientific Director of the IRM and Director, Program in Lung Regeneration and Repair. Dr. Morrisey has discovered the genes that are important for the development of the heart and lungs with the goal of understanding how they can promote tissue regeneration. |
