NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Developing a new treatment for pulmonary hypertension

Official title: Preclinical Development of a Novel eNAMPT-Neutralizing mAb for Pulmonary Hypertension

Funded at Aqualung Therapeutics Corp. · NIH-10931660 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) that uses a special antibody to block a protein linked to heart and lung problems, with the hope of helping patients feel better and live longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAqualung Therapeutics Corp.
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Juno Beach, UNITED STATES)
Project startSeptember 1, 2022
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$808,999
NIH project number5R42HL164300-03
Project IDNIH-10931660 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension who are experiencing right ventricular dysfunction.

Less likely to help

Patients with pulmonary hypertension caused by factors unrelated to eNAMPT or those with other severe comorbidities may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on a novel therapy targeting pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a serious condition that affects the lungs and heart. The approach involves a humanized monoclonal antibody designed to neutralize a specific protein called eNAMPT, which is linked to inflammation and worsening heart function in PAH patients. By blocking this protein, the research aims to improve right ventricular function and overall survival in individuals suffering from this disease. The study will utilize preclinical models to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this new treatment.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new therapy that significantly improves outcomes for patients with pulmonary hypertension.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting inflammatory pathways in pulmonary hypertension can be effective, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Aqualung Therapeutics Corp.
    Juno Beach, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Garcia, Joe G. N. — Aqualung Therapeutics Corp.
  • Study coordinator: Garcia, Joe G. N.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.