NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating lung issues in sheep with a genetic disorder affecting bone metabolism

Official title: Respiratory Distress in Sheep with Hypophosphatasia: Etiology, Functional Consequences and Rescue

Funded at Texas A&m Agrilife Research · NIH-10790694 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a genetic disorder called hypophosphatasia impacts lung growth and breathing in sheep, which could help us learn more about similar issues in people with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas A&m Agrilife Research
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES)
Project startAugust 19, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$223,105
NIH project number1R21HD114076-01
Project IDNIH-10790694 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with hypophosphatasia or those with related respiratory issues stemming from genetic disorders.

Less likely to help

Patients without hypophosphatasia or those not experiencing respiratory complications may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a genetic disorder called hypophosphatasia affects lung development and function in sheep. By creating a sheep model with a specific gene mutation, the researchers aim to explore the origins of respiratory distress and other complications associated with this condition. The study will involve examining the lung pathology in these sheep at various stages of development to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to respiratory problems. This research could provide valuable insights that may eventually translate to better understanding and treatment of similar conditions in humans.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for respiratory complications in patients with hypophosphatasia and similar disorders.

How similar studies have gone: While this research utilizes a novel sheep model, similar studies in other animal models have shown promise in understanding genetic disorders and their effects on lung function.

Where this research is happening

  • Texas A&m Agrilife Research
    College Station, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gaddy, Dana — Texas A&m Agrilife Research
  • Study coordinator: Gaddy, Dana

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.