How mitochondrial metabolism affects lung cell recovery after injury
Official title: Mitochondrial metabolism controls alveolar epithelial cell fate
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10853640 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the energy factories in our cells, called mitochondria, help lung cells heal after serious injuries like those from COVID-19 pneumonia, to find out why some people recover completely while others have ongoing breathing problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $616,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL172859-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10853640 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 who have experienced severe pneumonia or ARDS, particularly those affected by COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild respiratory issues or those who have not experienced significant lung injury may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondrial metabolism in the recovery of alveolar epithelial cells following severe lung injuries, such as those caused by COVID-19 pneumonia. It aims to understand why some patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) recover fully while others develop long-term respiratory issues. By examining specific cell populations and their metabolic functions, the study seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind these varied outcomes. The approach includes analyzing mitochondrial function and its impact on cell repair processes in the lungs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance lung recovery and prevent long-term complications in patients with ARDS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting mitochondrial function can improve outcomes in lung injury, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Seunghye — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Han, Seunghye
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.