How early lung development affects chronic lung disease in adulthood

Developmental Origins of COPD

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11291185

This study looks at how lung problems in preterm babies might affect their breathing as they grow up, especially in relation to developing COPD later in life, and it aims to find ways to help these babies breathe better in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11291185 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how lung function established in infancy can influence the risk of developing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) later in life. It focuses on preterm infants who may experience lung inflammation leading to bronchopulmonary dysplasia, which can alter lung development. By using a specialized mouse model, the study examines the effects of early lung inflammation on lung structure and function, aiming to uncover the mechanisms that link early lung issues to long-term respiratory problems. The findings could help identify early interventions for at-risk infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who are at risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia and subsequent lung function decline.

Not a fit: Patients who are not preterm or do not have a history of lung development issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing COPD in individuals who experienced lung issues as infants.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown that early lung development significantly impacts long-term respiratory health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.