NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how certain cells help heal lung damage

Official title: Defining PRC2 complex epigenomic control in alveolar progenitor cells

Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10983305 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain cells in the lungs help with breathing and how damage to these cells can lead to serious lung problems like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), with the goal of finding new ways to help the lungs heal better after injuries, especially since more people are facing these issues due to COVID-19.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project startDecember 15, 2022
Project endNovember 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$523,395
NIH project number5R01HL166245-03
Project IDNIH-10983305 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include adults who have experienced acute lung injuries or ARDS, particularly those recovering from severe respiratory conditions.

Less likely to help

Patients with chronic lung diseases unrelated to acute injuries or those who do not have a history of acute lung injury may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific progenitor cells in the alveolar region of the lungs, which are crucial for gas exchange and oxygenation. It focuses on how damage to these cells contributes to conditions like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a serious lung condition affecting many patients. By studying the mechanisms behind lung recovery, the research aims to identify new regenerative therapies that could improve healing after acute lung injuries, especially in the context of increased cases due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that enhance recovery from acute lung injuries and improve long-term lung health for affected patients.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of recovery in ARDS are not well understood, similar research approaches have shown promise in other areas of regenerative medicine.

Where this research is happening

  • Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
    Cincinnati, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Zacharias, William John — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Zacharias, William John

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.