Investigating how mitochondrial DNA affects lung inflammation and recovery
Official title: The mitochondrial genome in lung disease: a signaling hub linking the persistence and severity of inflammation to recovery
Funded at University of South Alabama · NIH-11056109 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny pieces of DNA from our cells' energy factories, called mitochondria, affect lung diseases by influencing inflammation and healing, with the hope of finding new ways to help people recover from these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Alabama NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mobile, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2024 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $652,078 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169587-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056109 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with acute lung injury or other inflammatory lung conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic lung diseases unrelated to inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of mitochondrial DNA in lung diseases, particularly how it influences inflammation and recovery processes. By examining the damage caused by reactive oxygen species, the study aims to understand how mitochondrial DNA fragments trigger inflammatory responses and the subsequent healing mechanisms. The research will utilize advanced analytical methods to assess the relationship between mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and inflammation resolution, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for lung conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from inflammatory lung diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mitochondrial function in inflammation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Alabama
Mobile, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gillespie, Mark N — University of South Alabama
- Study coordinator: Gillespie, Mark N
Related research
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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.