Targeting drugs to lung cells for treating ARDS

Nanomedicine for ARDS: A new paradigm to target drugs to multiple cell types within alveolar capillaries

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10871864

This study is exploring a new way to help people with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by using tiny lipid spheres that can deliver medicine directly to the right cells in the lungs, aiming to make treatments more effective for patients dealing with this serious lung issue.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10871864 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to treat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) by using specially designed lipid spheres called M-LACs. These M-LACs are engineered to deliver multiple drugs directly to specific cell types in the lungs, particularly targeting alveolar capillary cells and neutrophils. The study aims to understand how effectively these M-LACs can be taken up by these cells in both human lung models and mouse models of ARDS. By addressing the unique challenges of ARDS treatment, this research seeks to improve drug delivery and efficacy for patients suffering from this severe lung condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic respiratory conditions or those not diagnosed with ARDS may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for ARDS, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using targeted drug delivery systems for other conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in ARDS.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Acute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.