Understanding how certain cells in the lungs change into muscle cells in a serious lung condition.
Pericytes differentiate into smooth muscle cells through HIF2a/SDF1 activation
This study is looking at how certain cells in the lungs, called pericytes, change into muscle cells and make pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) worse, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with this condition feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10997345 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of pericytes, a type of cell found in the lungs, in the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a severe condition that leads to high blood pressure in the lungs and heart failure. The study aims to understand how these pericytes can transform into smooth muscle cells, contributing to the worsening of the disease. By examining the signaling pathways involved, particularly the HIF2A/SDF1 pathway, the researchers hope to uncover new mechanisms that drive this transformation. This could lead to innovative approaches to prevent or reverse the progression of PAH.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of pulmonary hypertension or those without any lung conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively halt or reverse the progression of pulmonary arterial hypertension.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell differentiation in similar contexts, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yuan, Ke — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Yuan, Ke
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.