Lung-targeted immune-boosting mRNA therapy for ARDS
Official title: Lung-targeting immunomodulatory mRNA-lipid nanoparticle system
Funded at Upstate Medical University · NIH-11287796 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A lung-targeted IL-10 mRNA therapy delivered by a special lipid nanoparticle is being explored to calm inflammation in adults with ARDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2026 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $448,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HL184087-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11287796 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with acute lung injury or ARDS who are undergoing standard critical care and ventilatory support.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without ARDS or those who are not hospitalized for acute lung injury are unlikely to benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to deliver IL-10 mRNA directly to the lungs using a novel lung-targeting lipid nanoparticle. By producing IL-10 right at the site of lung injury, the approach hopes to reduce harmful inflammation and improve oxygen exchange in people with ARDS. The study will use a short, early-phase design to test safety and initial effectiveness in a hospital setting.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could provide a targeted option to reduce lung inflammation and improve outcomes for patients with ARDS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous approaches with IL-10 showed potential but were limited by delivery and targeting; this study tests a lung-specific delivery method.
Where this research is happening
-
Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Yamin — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Li, Yamin
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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.