Understanding how acid reflux affects lung transplant outcomes

Physiologic and molecular mechanisms linking gastroesophageal reflux with chronic lung allograft dysfunction

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10933924

This study is looking at how stomach acid can affect lung transplant patients and cause problems with their new lungs, hoping to find better ways to help these patients feel better and improve their treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10933924 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the physiological and molecular mechanisms that link gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with complications in lung transplant recipients. It aims to identify how microaspiration of stomach contents can worsen conditions like primary graft dysfunction (PGD) and chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). By studying these connections, the research hopes to improve patient stratification for surgical interventions and develop new medical therapies to mitigate aspiration-related lung injury.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include lung transplant recipients who experience gastroesophageal reflux or related complications.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone lung transplantation or do not have gastroesophageal reflux may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for lung transplant patients, potentially enhancing their long-term outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the mechanisms of GERD and its impact on lung health could lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
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.