Developing a new dry powder aerosol treatment for lung issues in patients with respiratory distress

Preclinical development of a synthetic lung surfactant dry powder aerosol for hypoxemia or acute respiratory distress syndrome patients receiving different modes of ventilation support

NIH-funded research Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10863857

This study is working on a new way to help people with serious breathing problems, like low oxygen levels or acute respiratory distress syndrome, by creating a dry powder that can be easily inhaled instead of using liquid treatments that can be harder to give.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project IDNIH-10863857 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a synthetic lung surfactant in dry powder form that can be delivered as an aerosol to patients suffering from hypoxemia or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The approach aims to improve the delivery method compared to traditional liquid surfactant therapies, which often require invasive procedures and large volumes of liquid. By optimizing aerosol delivery strategies for various ventilation support methods, the research seeks to provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients experiencing severe lung injury. The study will involve preclinical development to ensure the product is efficient and safe for use in clinical settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults and children experiencing hypoxemia or ARDS due to direct lung injury.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic respiratory conditions or those who do not experience acute respiratory distress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective and less invasive treatment for patients with severe respiratory distress, potentially improving their recovery outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While traditional surfactant therapies have faced challenges, this novel approach using dry powder aerosol delivery is relatively untested, presenting an opportunity for breakthrough advancements.

Where this research is happening

Richmond, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acute Lung InjuryAcute Pulmonary InjuryAcute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.