Understanding Cell Aging in Newborn Lungs
Cellular Senescence in Neonatal Airways
This research explores how oxygen exposure in premature babies might lead to breathing problems by causing certain lung cells to age too quickly, and if new medicines could help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11159610 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Premature infants often require oxygen support, but this can sometimes lead to breathing difficulties and changes in their developing airways. This research explores whether exposure to oxygen causes certain lung cells, called airway smooth muscle cells, to age prematurely. These 'senescent' cells can release harmful substances that contribute to inflammation and scarring in the lungs, leading to conditions like airway hyperresponsiveness. We are investigating how oxygen triggers this cell aging and if new medications, called senolytics, can remove these aged cells to prevent or reverse lung damage. Our aim is to develop better treatments to protect the delicate lungs of premature babies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research focuses on premature infants who experience lung issues after receiving oxygen therapy.
Not a fit: Patients whose airway disease is not related to premature birth or oxygen exposure in infancy may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications that prevent or treat breathing problems in premature infants who receive oxygen support.
How similar studies have performed: While preliminary data in human cells and mouse models show promise for targeting senescent cells, this specific approach for neonatal airway disease is a novel area of focus.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Prakash, Y. S. — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Prakash, Y. S.
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.