Novel peptides to protect the lung from injury by blocking RhoA nitration
Official title: Development of Novel RhoA Nitration Inhibitory Peptides for the Treatment of Acute Lung Injury
Funded at Florida International University · NIH-11400334 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new treatment approach aims to protect the lungs in people with acute lung injury or ARDS by using specially designed peptides that block a molecular change (nitration) on RhoA to keep the lung barriers strong.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida International University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2025 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $516,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R61HL171783-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11400334 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be individuals at risk for or diagnosed with acute lung injury or ARDS who could be considered for future trials of barrier-protective therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without ALI/ARDS or those not eligible for early-phase peptide therapy would not benefit.
What this research studies
This early-stage grant focuses on developing peptide therapies that prevent RhoA nitration, which researchers believe weakens the lung’s barrier and worsens inflammation. By shielding RhoA, the treatment hopes to preserve endothelial barrier function and mitochondrial health during acute lung injury or ARDS. The project combines knowledge of cell signaling, molecular design, and preclinical testing to advance a potentially new pharmacological option for patients with severe lung inflammation. If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that improve oxygenation and reduce inflammation in people with ALI/ARDS, including those affected by viral outbreaks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the therapy could strengthen lung barriers and reduce inflammation in ALI/ARDS, potentially lowering mortality and speeding recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Similar barrier-protective strategies have shown promise in preclinical models, but this approach is novel in focusing on RhoA nitration.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida International University
Miami, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Black, Stephen M — Florida International University
- Study coordinator: Black, Stephen M
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.