NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding how low oxygen levels affect blood vessel function in the lungs

Official title: Oxidant Signaling in Pulmonary Hypertension

Funded at University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-10881993 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how low oxygen levels can cause high blood pressure in the lungs, which can be a problem for people with chronic lung diseases or those living at high altitudes, and it aims to find new ways to help treat this condition by understanding how low oxygen affects cholesterol in lung cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Albuquerque, United States)
Project startJuly 10, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$574,429
NIH project number5R01HL169945-02
Project IDNIH-10881993 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or those living in high-altitude areas.

Less likely to help

Patients with isolated pulmonary hypertension not related to chronic hypoxia or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how chronic low oxygen levels can lead to pulmonary hypertension, a condition where blood vessels in the lungs become constricted. The study focuses on the role of oxidant signaling mechanisms in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells, which may contribute to increased blood vessel resistance and heart strain. By examining how low oxygen affects cholesterol levels in these cells, the researchers aim to uncover new pathways that could be targeted for treatment. Patients with chronic lung diseases or those living at high altitudes may find this research particularly relevant.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for pulmonary hypertension, improving the quality of life for affected patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanisms of pulmonary hypertension related to chronic hypoxia, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
    Albuquerque, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Resta, Thomas C — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Resta, Thomas C

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.