Neuroimmune links to high blood pressure in the lungs
Official title: Neuroimmune axis contribution to the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11389424 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how brain-immune system interactions contribute to pulmonary hypertension so future therapies might target these pathways.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00HL165026-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11389424 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with pulmonary hypertension could benefit from future therapies informed by this research, including those who may participate in translational studies or trials.
✕Less likely to help
This basic science project uses animal models and may not directly benefit every patient during the research period.
What this research studies
This project looks at how immune cells in the brain, especially a type called microglia, may drive the abnormal nerve signals that worsen pulmonary hypertension. Using advanced imaging and animal models, the team will explore how microglia and related cells influence brain regions that control breathing and heart function. The goal is to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new drug targets that calm overactive brain signals and improve lung and heart health in people with PH.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify new brain-immune targets for therapies that slow PH progression and reduce symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work suggests microglia contribute to autonomic brain signaling; whether this directly translates to PH therapies is still being explored but shows promise.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oliveira, Aline Cristina — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Oliveira, Aline Cristina
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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.