Investigating the role of DLL4 in lung development and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants

DLL4 in the Developing Lung and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD)

NIH-funded research Children's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) · NIH-11017750

This study is looking at how a protein called DLL4 impacts lung growth in premature babies, especially those at risk for a serious lung problem called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), to find ways to help their lungs develop better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Mercy Hosp (Kansas City, Mo) NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11017750 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a protein called DLL4 affects lung development in premature infants, particularly in relation to a serious lung condition known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). The study examines the molecular mechanisms by which DLL4 influences the formation of blood vessels and air sacs in the lungs. By using mouse models and human cells, researchers aim to uncover how disruptions in DLL4 signaling contribute to BPD and explore potential therapeutic approaches to improve lung health in affected infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants who are at risk of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have lung development issues related to bronchopulmonary dysplasia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve lung development and reduce the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of DLL4 in lung development, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treating BPD.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, 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 Injury
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.