FGF signaling and vascular remodeling in lung hypertension
Official title: The protective role of fibroblast growth factor signaling in hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11392512 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A doctor-scientist at Washington University is studying how fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling affects pulmonary hypertension and exploring new potential therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $165,141 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL165108-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11392512 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with pulmonary hypertension or related vascular conditions who could be aligned with future translational work or trials related to FGF signaling therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pulmonary hypertension not connected to this specific signaling pathway or those not suitable for adenovirus-based approaches may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on understanding how FGF signaling in blood vessels influences the development of pulmonary hypertension, especially under low-oxygen conditions. The investigator will study endothelial and smooth muscle cell interactions and test adenovirus-delivered FGF as a possible way to regulate abnormal blood vessel changes. The work combines basic biology with potential translational approaches to improve outcomes for patients with pulmonary hypertension. A strong mentorship plan and access to a rich research environment at WUSM support the goal of advancing toward independent physician-scientist status.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could identify new ways to prevent or reverse lung blood vessel remodeling in pulmonary hypertension, potentially leading to better treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown that FGF signaling can influence vascular biology, providing a foundation for this approach, though translation to therapy is ongoing.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woo, Kelvin — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Woo, Kelvin
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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.