Improving lung preservation for transplantation using liver cell function
Official title: Incorporating hepatic cell function into lung ex vivo lung perfusion for transplant preservatio
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11099018 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to keep donated lungs in better shape for transplant by using liver cells during the preservation process, which could help improve the success of lung transplants for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | May 31, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $167,908 |
| NIH project number | 7R21HL164436-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099018 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals awaiting lung transplantation who may benefit from improved preservation techniques.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not candidates for lung transplantation or those with conditions that preclude them from receiving a transplant may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new method to enhance the preservation of lung grafts for transplantation by incorporating liver cell function into the ex vivo lung perfusion process. The approach aims to maintain normothermic circulation and ventilation, which could improve lung quality during preservation. By utilizing liver cell bioreactors, the study seeks to mitigate the toxic effects of prolonged lung preservation and reduce the risk of primary graft dysfunction. This innovative method could lead to better outcomes for patients receiving lung transplants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve lung transplant outcomes and increase the survival rates of patients post-transplant.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using cross-circulation models to enhance lung resuscitation, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in lung preservation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sanchez, Pablo G — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Sanchez, Pablo G
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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.