Investigating a factor in lung development and its role in a common neonatal lung disease

Role of alveolar epithelial cell-derived cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) in alveologenesis and bronchopulmonary dysplasia

NIH-funded research Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware · NIH-10903832

This study is looking at how a protein called CCN2 helps newborns' lungs grow and heal, with the goal of finding new ways to treat bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in premature babies.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNemours Children's Hospital, Delaware NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Wilmington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10903832 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, Cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2), influences the development of lung structures in newborns. The principal investigator, Dr. Deepthi Alapati, will utilize advanced genetic mouse models and 3D cell culture systems to explore the molecular mechanisms involved in lung repair and regeneration. By applying gene editing technologies, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a serious condition affecting premature infants. The findings could lead to innovative treatments that improve lung health in neonates.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have lung development issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve lung function and outcomes for infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using genetic and molecular approaches to address lung diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Wilmington, 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 2026-06-13 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.