How alcohol affects lung injury and healing processes

Alcohol-mediated Clock genes interfere with lung injury and repair

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11044143

This study looks at how long-term drinking affects lung problems like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and aims to understand how alcohol messes with the body's natural clock that helps keep our lungs healthy, hoping to find new ways to help people with lung issues related to alcohol use.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044143 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of chronic alcohol consumption on acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and its associated lung injuries. It explores how alcohol disrupts the body's circadian signaling pathways, which are crucial for lung function and repair. By examining specific molecules involved in these pathways, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to lung damage and fibrosis in individuals with a history of alcohol abuse. The findings could lead to innovative therapeutic strategies to improve lung health in affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults with a history of chronic alcohol use who have developed or are at risk for acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use or who are not affected by acute respiratory distress syndrome may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance lung recovery and quality of life for patients suffering from ARDS, particularly those with alcohol-related issues.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms being investigated are novel, previous research has shown that targeting circadian rhythms can have beneficial effects on various health conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, 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 2026-06-15 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.