RAB7 in lung blood vessels and pulmonary hypertension
Regulation and Function of RAB7 in the pulmonary endothelium
['FUNDING_R01'] · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11227116
This work looks at whether changes in a gene called RAB7 in the cells that line lung blood vessels drive pulmonary arterial hypertension and could point to ways to slow or stop disease progression for people with PAH.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11227116 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine how the endosomal protein RAB7 is controlled in endothelial cells (the cells that line pulmonary arteries) and how low-oxygen signaling may lower its levels. They will study the roles of MEIS2, HIF-2α, and microRNA-199a in regulating RAB7 using lung endothelial cells, patient-derived samples, and animal models to see how those changes alter the signals these cells release. The team will also probe a newly discovered interaction between RAB7 and RNA-binding proteins and analyze secreted factors that promote artery wall thickening. Together, these experiments aim to reveal the molecular steps that lead to pulmonary artery remodeling and suggest targets for treatments that stop or reverse that process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), especially those with evidence of pulmonary artery remodeling, would be the most relevant candidates for related future trials or for donating samples.
Not a fit: People with unrelated forms of high blood pressure or lung disease, or those without PAH, are unlikely to benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new molecular targets or biomarkers that help prevent or reverse pulmonary artery remodeling and improve outcomes for people with PAH.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has linked endothelial dysfunction to PAH, but the specific RAB7–MEIS2–miR-199a pathway and its effects on endothelial secretions are newly described and have not yet been tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY — Columbus, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FARKAS, LASZLO — OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: FARKAS, LASZLO
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 below.