NIH-funded research Career grant

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 typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2025
Project endJuly 31, 2030
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$164,916
NIH project number5K08HL181183-02
Project IDNIH-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

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.