Investigating how a specific ion channel affects pulmonary hypertension
Official title: The Role of Mitochondrial Acid-Sensing Ion Channel 1 in Pulmonary Hypertension
Funded at University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-10996925 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein in our cells, called ASIC1a, affects lung blood flow in people with pulmonary hypertension caused by chronic lung diseases, and it hopes to find new ways to help treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,756 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HL170503-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996925 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, particularly those with chronic lung diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pulmonary hypertension not related to chronic lung diseases or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) in pulmonary hypertension (PH), particularly in cases caused by chronic lung diseases. The study examines how changes in the location of ASIC1a within cells affect the function of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells, which are crucial in regulating blood flow in the lungs. By using rodent models, the researchers aim to uncover the physiological effects of ASIC1a loss and its impact on cell signaling and function, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches for PH. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the mechanisms of their condition and the development of targeted treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for pulmonary hypertension that specifically target the underlying cellular mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of ASIC1a in pulmonary hypertension is being explored here, similar research has shown promise in understanding ion channels in other cardiovascular conditions, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tuineau, Megan — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Tuineau, Megan
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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.