Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), operating under the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.837), awarded the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill a Project Grant totaling $750,330 for research spanning July 10, 2026, through April 30, 2030. The research investigates the molecular structure, function, and interactome of MUC5AC mucin protein to develop targeted therapeutic approaches for airway obstruction in chronic lung diseases. The project delivers integrated scientific investigation into how MUC5AC—a mucin that accumulates abnormally in diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—assembles into tightly organized, highly branched multimers that produce pathologically stiff and viscoelastic mucus gels, contrasting with the linear, less-branched structure of the normal dominant airway mucin MUC5B. The research aims to elucidate the mechanistic connection between MUC5AC hyperconcentration and airway plugging observed in severe disease states, providing a scientific foundation for mechanism-based drug development.

The deliverables encompass fundamental and translational research products including characterization of MUC5AC macromolecular assembly, biophysical property analysis, protein-interaction studies, and mechanistic insights into mucus gel formation and composition changes in response to chronic stimuli such as cigarette smoke and allergen exposure. The research will advance understanding of airway homeostasis and pathogenic mucus formation, ultimately supporting the development of therapies targeting MUC5AC-driven obstruction in respiratory diseases. Performance of the award occurs at the Chapel Hill, North Carolina location of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Office of Sponsored Research.