Travis Barr

Principal Scientist - Biology Discovery - Cardio Metabolic Disease & Fibrosis Team Merck & Co

Seminars

Tuesday 19th August 2025
Decoding the Disruptions in Natural Biological Processes to Advance Early Intervention in IPF – Unravelling the Molecular Biology of Immune Cells & Inflammation
8:00 am

Understanding the complex interplay between immune responses, epithelial dysfunction, and regeneration failures is crucial for advancing early intervention strategies in IPF. This workshop will explore the molecular underpinnings of immune cell activity, inflammation, and epithelial repair in disease progression. Through expert insights, we will dissect how disrupted biological processes drive fibrosis and discuss emerging therapeutic approaches targeting immune and epithelial pathways.

Get ready to explore:

Epithelial Dysfunction & Regeneration Failure in IPF

  • The molecular biology of epithelial injury and its role in disease progression
  • Why failed regeneration is central to fibrosis development
  • Emerging biomarkers linking epithelial signatures to disease severity

The Enigmatic Role of Inflammation in IPF

  • Understanding the paradox: why anti-inflammatory therapies worsen outcomes
  • The potential of immune-targeting therapies and companies exploring this space

Bridging Immunology & Fibrosis in IPF Treatment

  • Key immune players: which inflammatory cells are present, and what role do they play?
  • How immune modulation could be leveraged for therapeutic intervention
  • The next steps in developing immune-based therapies for IPF
Travis Barr