Understanding how early healing processes work in injured lungs

Spatiotemporal control of early matricellular events in the injured lung

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11066890

This study is looking at how certain proteins in the body help the lungs heal after a serious injury, like what happens in acute lung injury, to find new ways to help patients recover better in the hospital.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11066890 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological mechanisms involved in acute lung injury (ALI), also known as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which is a serious condition affecting patients in intensive care. The study focuses on the role of matricellular proteins, particularly thrombospondin-1, in the early stages of lung repair following injury. By examining how these proteins interact with structural components of the lung, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve recovery outcomes for patients suffering from ALI. The approach includes both laboratory experiments and analysis of biological signals that occur during the healing process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with acute lung injury or acute respiratory distress syndrome, particularly those in intensive care settings.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic lung diseases or those who do not experience acute lung injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that specifically target the underlying causes of acute lung injury, improving recovery rates for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting matricellular proteins for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.