Understanding how certain natural substances contribute to severe lung injury
Indole Metabolites as Xenobiotic Danger signals in Acute Lung Injury
This work explores how specific natural chemicals in the body might trigger severe inflammation in the lungs, leading to a condition called Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11128030 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a serious lung condition where inflammation makes it hard to breathe, and there aren't many effective treatments beyond supportive care. We want to understand the biological pathways that cause this excessive inflammation. Our focus is on 'danger signals,' which are natural substances that can activate the body's immune system in lung cells. While these signals usually help fight off infections, too much activation can harm the lungs. We are looking for new danger signals derived from metabolites that play a role in this process.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) who might benefit from future therapies developed from this understanding.
Not a fit: Patients without ARDS or related acute lung injuries 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 the severe lung inflammation seen in ARDS, potentially improving survival and reducing long-term health problems for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of inflammation in ARDS is known, this specific approach of identifying novel metabolite-derived danger signals is a new and promising area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Evankovich, John W — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Evankovich, John W
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.