Transcriptome-based management of transplant-related pulmonary fibrosis in chronic pulmonary rejection after lung or allogeneic stem cell transplantation

Background
Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) and chronic pulmonary
graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) are life-threatening conditions
commonly encountered respectively after lung transplantation and
allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Pathophysiological and molecular pathways associated with
transplant-related pulmonary fibrosis, leading to structural changes
and lung failure, in CLAD and pulmonary cGvHD remain unknown.
Aims
The primary objective of this translational research project is to
investigate the pathways and mechanisms involved in transplantrelated
pulmonary fibrosis in obstructive and restrictive phenotypes of
CLAD and pulmonary cGvHD, in order to identify novel diagnostic
markers and to design improved therapeutics, allowing to better
manage rejection-mediated fibrotic lung remodeling.
Methods
A multi-modal approach, using human lung tissue, bronchoalveolar
lavage and blood samples, is used to assess the morphometric
structural changes, immunopathologic organization, and gene
signature in CLAD and pulmonary cGvHD.

Expected results
This project will gain novel, breakthrough insights in the
pathophysiology of CLAD and pulmonary cGvHD, lead to novel
diagnostic and better therapeutic tools, allowing for improved,
personalized medical management; which will result in better longterm
outcomes in patients undergoing lung transplantation and
allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.