How activated platelets contribute to lung blood vessel changes in pulmonary hypertension

Complement-Driven Platelet Activation in Pulmonary Vascular Remodeling and Pulmonary Hypertension

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10911069

This study is looking at how certain blood cells called platelets, which can get activated by the immune system, affect blood vessels in the lungs of people with pulmonary hypertension, and it aims to find out how this process contributes to the condition so we can better understand and treat it.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10911069 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how activated platelets, influenced by the complement system, contribute to changes in blood vessels in the lungs, particularly in pulmonary hypertension (PH). By using both animal models and human samples, the study aims to understand the mechanisms behind platelet activation and its role in promoting inflammation and vascular remodeling. The researchers will employ innovative genetic and pharmacologic techniques to explore how complement proteins activate platelets and lead to endothelial dysfunction, which is a key factor in the progression of PH.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension or those at risk for developing this condition.

Not a fit: Patients with pulmonary hypertension caused by non-inflammatory factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating pulmonary hypertension by targeting platelet activation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that targeting platelet activation can have beneficial effects in other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in pulmonary hypertension.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
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.