Investigating how microRNAs affect airway smooth muscle function in asthma
Official title: MicroRNAs in Airway Smooth Muscle Function and Asthma
Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-11039406 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny molecules called microRNAs to see how they affect the muscles in the airways of children with asthma, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat asthma symptoms better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $616,814 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL177625-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11039406 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old who have been diagnosed with asthma or exhibit symptoms of airway hyperresponsiveness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have asthma or related airway conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of microRNAs in the function of airway smooth muscle (ASM) and their impact on asthma, particularly in children. The study aims to identify specific microRNAs that regulate ASM characteristics such as proliferation and contractility, which are crucial in the development of asthma symptoms. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR and microRNA mimics, researchers will explore how these molecular regulators contribute to airway hyperresponsiveness and asthma severity. The ultimate goal is to uncover new therapeutic targets that could lead to more effective asthma treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that better manage asthma symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting microRNAs for therapeutic purposes in various conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in asthma.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard School of Public Health
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Quan — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Lu, Quan
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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.