Investigating how glucocorticoids and immune cells help recover lung function after injury.

The effect of endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoids acting through regulatory T cells on resolution of ALI and the contribution of host genetic variability.

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11050204

This study is looking at how special immune cells help heal the lungs after serious conditions like ARDS and pneumonia, and it will see how a common steroid medication affects these cells to find out why some people recover better than others, with the hope of creating more tailored treatments for lung injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11050204 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how certain immune cells, known as regulatory T cells, contribute to the healing process of the lungs following acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and pneumonia. The study will explore the effects of glucocorticoids, a type of steroid medication, on these immune cells and how they may influence recovery. By examining the genetic variability among patients, the research aims to identify why some individuals respond better to glucocorticoid treatment than others. This could lead to more personalized and effective therapies for patients suffering from lung injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or pneumonia.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic lung diseases or those who do not have acute lung injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with acute lung injuries, enhancing their recovery and overall lung function.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in lung recovery, but this specific approach to glucocorticoid effects on Tregs is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Conditions Acute Lung InjuryAcute Pulmonary InjuryAcute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
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.