A new method to preserve human lungs for longer periods.
Official title: Perpetual Organ Preservation and Rehabilitation (POPR)
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10753571 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to keep human lungs healthy and functioning outside the body for longer periods, which could help improve lung transplants for people in need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $201,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HL167136-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10753571 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals awaiting lung transplantation or those with severe lung diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable lung conditions or those not requiring transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a groundbreaking technique to maintain whole human lungs outside the body for extended durations. By utilizing a method called normothermic ex situ organ perfusion (EVOP), the team aims to enhance the preservation and rehabilitation of lungs for transplantation. This approach allows for the evaluation of organ health and functionality while maintaining intact cellular interactions, which is crucial for understanding human physiology and disease. The research involves using a porcine model to test and improve the stability of organ health during preservation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the availability and success rates of lung transplants for patients in need.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise with similar organ preservation techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hartwig, Matthew Galen — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Hartwig, Matthew Galen
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.