New treatments for pulmonary arterial hypertension using targeted medications
Official title: Systemically restricted 5-HT2B antagonists for pulmonary arterial hypertension
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11017857 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new medications for people with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) that aim to lower lung blood pressure without causing unwanted side effects like mood changes, so patients can have better treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $612,104 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL172247-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017857 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of pulmonary hypertension or those who do not have a diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new medications to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a serious condition that causes high blood pressure in the lungs. The approach involves creating selective antagonists for the serotonin 2B receptor that do not enter the brain, thereby reducing potential side effects like depression and aggression. The researchers will conduct safety and efficacy tests in preclinical models to ensure these new treatments are safe and effective before moving to clinical trials. This work aims to provide a much-needed therapeutic option for patients suffering from PAH.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting serotonin receptors for PAH treatment, but this specific approach using systemically restricted antagonists is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Merryman, William D — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Merryman, William D
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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.