How mechanical forces and retinoic acid affect lung development

Interplay between mechanical forces and retinoic acid in lung development

NIH-funded research Princeton University · NIH-11000294

This study is looking at how pressure from fluids affects lung development in unborn babies with a condition called congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), using special tools and mouse models to see how these forces help shape healthy lungs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPrinceton University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Princeton, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11000294 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how mechanical forces, such as fluid pressure, influence the development of the lungs in fetuses, particularly in the context of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). By using advanced techniques like microfluidic platforms and mouse models, the study aims to understand the relationship between these forces and the signaling pathways involving retinoic acid that are crucial for proper lung formation. The research will involve observing lung tissue development in real-time and analyzing cellular responses to these mechanical stimuli.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are fetuses diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia or other congenital lung abnormalities.

Not a fit: Patients with fully developed lungs or those without congenital lung defects may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for congenital lung defects, potentially reducing neonatal mortality.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific interplay of mechanical forces and retinoic acid in lung development is a novel approach, related studies have shown success in understanding lung development and congenital defects.

Where this research is happening

Princeton, 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 2026-06-09 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.