Optimal vasopressor choice for newborns with PPHN
Official title: OPTImal vasoPRESsor in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (OPTIPRES)
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11378190 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests which vasopressor best supports blood flow and oxygenation in newborns with persistent pulmonary hypertension after birth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2025 |
| Project end | July 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $164,916 |
| NIH project number | 5K08HL181183-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11378190 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Newborns with perinatal asphyxia and persistent pulmonary hypertension requiring vasopressor support.
✕Less likely to help
Newborns without PPHN or those not needing vasopressors unlikely to benefit from the study findings.
What this research studies
In newborns with perinatal asphyxia and PPHN, blood pressure and heart function are challenged, especially after therapeutic hypothermia. The project plans a randomized comparison of dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, and vasopressin to see how each drug affects systemic versus pulmonary blood flow, heart function, and overall perfusion. By understanding which vasopressor best balance SVR and PVR, clinicians may improve oxygen delivery and reduce hypoxemia. The work will explore vascular and cellular responses to these drugs in the context of PPHN and oxygen therapy. If successful, findings could guide safer, more effective management of vasopressor support in affected newborns.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to clearer guidelines for choosing vasopressors to improve oxygenation and organ perfusion in newborns with PPHN.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown variable responses to vasopressors in neonatal PPHN, but direct comparative data are limited and this trial aims to fill that gap.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sankaran, Deepika — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Sankaran, Deepika
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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.