Understanding Aquaporin 1 in Lung Blood Vessel Disease
Aquaporin 1 and pulmonary hypertension
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11145637
This research explores how a protein called Aquaporin 1 might contribute to the changes in blood vessels seen in pulmonary arterial hypertension, a serious lung condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11145637 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe lung disease with no cure, where small blood vessels in the lungs become thick and blocked. This happens because cells in these vessels grow too much and don't die off as they should. Our team is looking at a protein called Aquaporin 1, which helps move water in and out of cells, and we've found it's more active in models of pulmonary hypertension. We believe Aquaporin 1 might be involved in how these cells grow and survive, potentially leading to the vessel changes. We are specifically focusing on a part of Aquaporin 1 that seems important for its role in cell behavior.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension who might benefit from future treatments based on understanding the Aquaporin 1 protein.
Not a fit: Patients without pulmonary arterial hypertension would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to target Aquaporin 1 to prevent or reverse the damaging changes in lung blood vessels for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How similar studies have performed: While Aquaporins are known for water transport, their specific role in the cell growth and survival aspects of pulmonary hypertension, particularly AQP1's interaction with β-catenin, is a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHIMODA, LARISSA A. — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SHIMODA, LARISSA A.
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.