Investigating how lung injury affects brain development in preterm infants

Exosomal Gasdermin D Mediated Lung to Brain Crosstalk in Preterm Brain Injury

NIH-funded research University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-10850209

This study is looking at how tiny particles from the lungs might affect brain health in premature babies, especially when they have lung problems, to find new ways to help protect their brains from injury.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Coral Gables, United States)
Project IDNIH-10850209 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the communication between the lungs and the brain, particularly focusing on how these vesicles contribute to brain injury and neurodevelopmental impairment in preterm infants. The study examines the mechanisms by which inflammatory processes, specifically involving gasdermin D, affect brain development following lung complications like bronchopulmonary dysplasia. By analyzing the presence of specific proteins in circulating EVs, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets that could mitigate brain injury in this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preterm infants who are at risk of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia and associated neurodevelopmental impairments.

Not a fit: Patients who are full-term infants or those without lung injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce brain injury in preterm infants suffering from lung complications.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammatory processes in brain injury, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Coral Gables, 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 2026-06-15 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.