Two researchers from Indiana University have received grants from the American Lung Association Research Institute for their innovative studies on lung disease treatments. Dr. Marta Gomes was honored with the Catalyst Award, while Dr. Catherine Rufatto Sears received the Lung Cancer Discovery Award.
Dr. Gomes' research aims to investigate whether a deficiency in a protein called WWOX leads to increased cell growth and metabolic changes in pulmonary arteries, potentially causing Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). This rare condition is progressive, and understanding WWOX's role could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Dr. Sears' study examines how lung cancer develops in individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Her team will explore how deficiencies in DNA repair affect lung cells when exposed to cigarette smoke, contributing to COPD and lung cancer development. The research seeks insights into tumor interactions with the local lung environment and genome alterations associated with these diseases.
The American Lung Association Research Institute has announced a $22 million investment in research over the past year, making it one of the largest programs dedicated to lung health nationwide. It funded 139 research grants, including those through its Airways Clinical Research Centers (ACRC) and strategic partnerships focused on identifying, treating, and curing lung diseases.
"In 2024, the American Lung Association is celebrating 120 years of funding lifesaving research," stated Tanya Husain, Executive Director at the Lung Association. "Here in Indiana, lung research is critical because more than one million Hoosiers are living with lung disease."
The awards cover various categories addressing different aspects of lung disease: American Lung Association/AAAAI Allergic Respiratory Diseases Award; American Lung Association/ATS/CHEST Foundation Respiratory Health Equity Research Award; Catalyst Award; Emerging Respiratory Diseases; Public Health & Public Policy Research Award; Hastings Innovation Award for Interstitial Lung Disease; Dalsemer Interstitial Lung Disease Award; Innovation Award; and the Lung Cancer Discovery Award.
Research projects funded by the association undergo rigorous scientific peer review to ensure they address complex issues related to lung health effectively.
Applications for the 2025-2026 research awards cycle are currently being accepted by the association. More information about active funding opportunities can be found at Lung.org/awards. Details about new grant awardees and other members of the American Lung Association Research Team are available at Lung.org/research-team.
