Role of LKB1 in reduced lung blood vessel growth in BPD

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a common problem in babies born early and is worsened by high oxygen exposure. This grant studies how reduced LKB1 and related AMPK signaling in lung endothelial cells may limit new blood vessel growth, contributing to BPD. Using neonatal mouse models, the researchers will explore how LKB1, AMPK, and mitochondrial biogenesis interact to drive angiogenesis in the lungs and whether activating AMPK can restore normal vessel formation. The work builds on prior findings that metformin can improve mitochondrial function and lung angiogenesis in hyperoxia, with the goal of translating these insights toward human therapies. Overall, the project seeks to map the molecular pathway from cellular energy sensing to blood vessel growth in the developing lung to inform future treatments for BPD.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Medical College of Wisconsin
  Milwaukee, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Konduri, Girija G. — Medical College of Wisconsin
• Study coordinator: Konduri, Girija G.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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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.