European Union Funded New Pulmonary Fibrosis Therapy
The BREATH-EC project has launched an international effort to develop genetically modified cell therapy for tissue scarring.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Asthma
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The European Union has awarded 10 million euros to the BREATH-EC project to advance a new immune cell therapy for pulmonary fibrosis. An international consortium led by Hannover Medical School aims to use genetically modified macrophages to halt and potentially reverse lung tissue scarring.
Why it matters
Pulmonary fibrosis currently has no cure, making the development of targeted therapies a critical medical priority. By addressing the underlying causes of tissue scarring, this research could pave the way for treatments applicable to other fibrotic heart and liver diseases.
The four-year research initiative utilizes macrophages generated from induced pluripotent stem cells or donor blood. Researchers intend to deliver these modified cells via bronchoscopy to inhibit fibrosis development.
The players
Hannover Medical School
Located in Germany, this institution is leading the international consortium responsible for developing the new cell-based treatment.
European Union
This political and economic union is providing 10 million euros in funding to support the international research collaboration.
The details
The project integrates expertise from Germany, Sweden, England, South Korea, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, and Belgium. Scientists are modifying macrophages to recognize specific signs of fibrosis and subsequently produce antibodies designed to block the scarring process.
Timeline
The BREATH-EC research project is scheduled to run for a duration of 4 years.
Health Landscape
This project follows the precedent of the European Union's Horizon research funding framework by prioritizing collaborative international efforts to tackle incurable chronic conditions. It marks a shift toward utilizing advanced genetic modification of immune cells to treat fibrotic diseases.
While this therapy is currently in the development phase, its success could eventually provide a treatment option for a condition that currently has no cure. Future clinical trials will determine how this bronchoscopic delivery method impacts standard respiratory care routines for patients.
The takeaway
This international collaboration aims to transform how clinicians approach irreversible lung damage through precision immune cell modification. The success of this methodology could extend beyond lung health, offering a blueprint for treating fibrosis in other vital organs like the heart and liver.
Further reading
For more information on respiratory health developments, visit our Asthma section.
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