Understanding how certain immune cells help heal the lungs after injury

Defining the Role of Regulatory T Cells in Resolution of Acute Lung Injury

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11000341

This study is looking at how special immune cells called regulatory T cells help the lungs heal after injuries like pneumonia and ARDS, and it aims to find new ways to improve recovery for patients by understanding how these cells work during the healing process.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11000341 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of regulatory T cells in the recovery process from acute lung injuries, such as those caused by pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It aims to uncover how these immune cells contribute to healing by analyzing their behavior and gene expression in lung tissue during recovery. By studying these cells in both experimental models and patients, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could enhance lung healing and reduce complications. The approach includes advanced techniques like transcriptome profiling to understand the specific functions of these cells during the resolution phase of lung injury.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults who have experienced acute lung injuries or ARDS.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic lung conditions or those who have not experienced acute lung injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve recovery from acute lung injuries, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality associated with ARDS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of regulatory T cells in other types of tissue healing, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Conditions Acute Lung InjuryAcute Pulmonary InjuryAcute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
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.