Understanding Cell Death Pathways in Lung Transplants to Prevent Complications
Complementary pathways of necroptosis in recipient and donor lung tissue that drive primary lung allograft dysfunction
This work explores how specific cell death processes in both donor and recipient lungs contribute to a serious complication called primary graft dysfunction after lung transplantation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11181185 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Lung transplantation is a life-saving treatment, but a major challenge is primary graft dysfunction (PGD), which affects many patients and reduces long-term success. Our team discovered that certain immune cells in donor lungs, activated by damage signals, start a chain reaction leading to PGD. We believe a specific type of cell death, called necroptosis, in both the new donor lung and the patient's own remaining lung tissue, is a key reason PGD happens. We will investigate how this cell death occurs in the patient's injured lungs, especially in those with conditions like acute lung injury or ARDS, to find ways to prevent it.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to patients who have undergone or are considering lung transplantation, especially those with pre-existing acute lung injuries or acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients not undergoing or considering lung transplantation would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat primary graft dysfunction, improving the success and survival rates for lung transplant recipients.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds on preliminary data showing sustained necroptosis in diseased recipient lungs, suggesting a novel and promising approach to a known problem.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bharat, Ankit — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Bharat, Ankit
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.