How FGF signaling affects lung development and alveolar formation
Official title: Regulation of primary and secondary alveologenesis by FGF signaling pathways
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11028111 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain signals in the body help form tiny air sacs in the lungs, which are really important for breathing, especially in premature babies who might have trouble with their lungs due to a condition called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and it hopes to find new ways to help these babies breathe better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 29, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $740,317 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL176901-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11028111 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants diagnosed with bronchopulmonary dysplasia who are experiencing impaired lung development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or do not have bronchopulmonary dysplasia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of FGF signaling pathways in the development of alveoli, which are crucial for effective lung function. It focuses on understanding how these pathways influence the formation of alveolar structures during lung development, particularly in the context of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a condition that affects premature infants. By studying the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to enhance lung development and improve outcomes for affected infants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that promote lung development in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, potentially reducing long-term respiratory issues.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lung development mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on FGF signaling pathways is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ornitz, David M — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Ornitz, David M
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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.