Understanding how gene regulation affects lung cell changes in pulmonary hypertension

Epigenetic regulation of pulmonary smooth muscle cell remodeling in Pulmonary Hypertension

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10930189

This study is looking at how a specific protein called SPHK2 affects lung cells in people with pulmonary hypertension, with the goal of finding new ways to treat the condition by targeting the root causes instead of just the symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10930189 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of epigenetic regulation in the remodeling of pulmonary smooth muscle cells associated with pulmonary hypertension (PH). It focuses on the sphingosine kinase 2 (SPHK2) and its impact on gene transcription that contributes to the disease's progression. By examining how SPHK2 influences the acetylation of histones and gene expression in lung tissues, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for treating PH. Patients may benefit from potential new drug treatments that address the underlying causes of vascular remodeling rather than just alleviating symptoms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, particularly those experiencing significant vascular remodeling.

Not a fit: Patients with pulmonary hypertension who do not exhibit significant vascular remodeling or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that more effectively treat pulmonary hypertension by targeting the root causes of vascular remodeling.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting epigenetic mechanisms for various diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results in pulmonary hypertension as well.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.