Human Lung Tissue Consortium
Advancing Lung Research Through Collaboration
The Human Lung Tissue Consortium is a unique research partnership dedicated to accelerating discoveries in pulmonary science. The consortium brings together investigators from across National Jewish Health and collaborating institutions to share access to high-quality human lung tissue resources that support a diverse range of research initiatives.
Through strong partnerships with organ procurement organizations, the consortium receives donated human lungs and tracheas. These invaluable donations provide researchers with an opportunity to study human lung biology in ways that are not possible through laboratory models alone, helping to advance our understanding of respiratory health and disease.
From Donation to Discovery
Donor lungs are obtained through Donor Alliance, Colorado's organ procurement organization, and the International Institute for the Advancement of Medicine (IIAM). Following procurement, each lung is carefully perfused through the pulmonary artery to remove excess blood and preserve tissue quality. The organs are then transported directly to National Jewish Health, where processing begins within 24 hours of recovery to ensure the highest possible research value.
This rapid and coordinated process allows investigators to access exceptionally well-preserved specimens for a wide range of scientific studies, from basic cellular biology to translational research aimed at developing new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
A Legacy of Scientific Excellence
The Human Lung Program was established more than a decade ago by Dr. Bob Mason with a primary focus on obtaining alveolar type II cells for research. What began as a specialized effort has evolved into a comprehensive resource supporting investigators across multiple disciplines of pulmonary research.
Today, the program plays a critical role in advancing studies of lung development, immune responses, tissue repair, chronic lung disease, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Its growth reflects both the increasing demand for human tissue resources and the program's commitment to fostering scientific collaboration.
Program Leadership
The consortium is led by Dr. Patrick Hume, who oversees donor tissue acquisition and serves as the primary liaison. Dr. Hume evaluates and screens donor lungs to ensure that each donation aligns with the scientific needs of participating investigators and the consortium's research objectives.
His leadership helps ensure that donated tissues are utilized responsibly, efficiently, and in ways that maximize their impact on scientific discovery.
Tissue Processing and Distribution
Dr. Hume's laboratory coordinates all aspects of lung tissue processing, characterization, and distribution. Working closely with consortium investigators, the team ensures that tissues are allocated appropriately to support a broad range of research projects.
Available specimens may include:
- Tracheal tissue
- Whole lung lobes
- Small tissue sections
- Alveolar macrophages
- Pulmonary arteries
- Additional specialized samples based on availability and research needs
By providing access to these valuable resources, the Human Lung Tissue Consortium enables researchers to pursue innovative studies that deepen our understanding of lung biology and contribute to the development of future treatments for respiratory disease.
To join the Human Lung Tissue Consortium and learn more about pricing or collaboration please contact: HumeP@njhealth.org