NIH-funded research R01 grant

Improving treatment for empyema in older patients

Official title: Enhanced Delivery of Thrombolytic Carriers for Empyema

Funded at University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler · NIH-10881730 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking for better and safer ways to treat empyema in older adults by using new therapies that can help dissolve the fluid without needing surgery, making it easier for those who might have other health problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tyler, United States)
Project startJuly 15, 2021
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$609,709
NIH project number5R01HL152059-04
Project IDNIH-10881730 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are patients aged 65 and older who are diagnosed with empyema and may not be suitable for surgical intervention.

Less likely to help

Patients with empyema who are younger than 65 or those who are not experiencing significant health issues may not benefit from this specific research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the delivery of thrombolytic therapies for empyema, a condition that can be particularly severe in patients over 65 years old. The study aims to develop more effective and safer forms of intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy (IPFT) that can be used instead of invasive surgical options, which may not be suitable for many elderly patients with other health issues. By using advanced techniques such as ultrasound and specialized liposomal carriers, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes and reduce complications like bleeding. The approach involves testing new therapies in a validated animal model to ensure their effectiveness before considering human trials.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for empyema, significantly improving recovery rates and quality of life for older patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced delivery systems for thrombolytic therapies, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
    Tyler, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Komissarov, Andrey — University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
  • Study coordinator: Komissarov, Andrey

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.