Lymphatic Changes in Congenital Heart Disease

Altered Lymphatic Function and Development in Congenital Heart Disease

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11091476

This project looks at how lymphatic vessels develop and function differently in people with congenital heart disease, especially those with increased blood flow to the lungs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11091476 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Many health issues in congenital heart disease, like fluid buildup in the chest or immune problems, are linked to changes in the body's lymphatic system. Even after heart surgery, breathing problems can continue for years and increase risks for adults with congenital heart disease. This project aims to understand why these lymphatic changes happen and how they contribute to the disease. Researchers are using advanced models to explore how increased blood flow to the lungs affects lymphatic vessels, their structure, and their cellular processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational work focuses on understanding disease mechanisms in congenital heart disease, particularly those affecting the lymphatic system in both children and adults.

Not a fit: Patients without congenital heart disease or related lymphatic issues would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Understanding these lymphatic changes could lead to new ways to prevent or treat complications and improve long-term health for patients with congenital heart disease.

How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon previous findings in animal models that have shown specific lymphatic abnormalities linked to increased pulmonary blood flow in congenital heart disease.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 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.