Understanding how MEOX2 affects lung development in premature infants
Official title: MEOX2: A Critical Regulator of Alveolar Fibroblast Function
Funded at Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-11136623 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called MEOX2 affects lung cells that help develop the lungs in premature babies, with the goal of finding new ways to treat lung problems like Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $721,826 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL164418-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136623 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are premature infants diagnosed with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia or related chronic lung conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not premature or do not have chronic lung diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the MEOX2 gene in the function of alveolar fibroblasts, which are crucial for lung development, particularly in premature infants. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that regulate the formation and maturation of alveoli, the tiny air sacs in the lungs. By analyzing changes in fibroblast function during lung development and disease, the researchers hope to identify potential therapeutic targets for conditions like Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD). The approach includes using animal models and advanced genetic techniques to observe the effects of manipulating MEOX2 expression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve lung function and outcomes for premature infants suffering from chronic lung diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of fibroblasts in lung development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perl, Anne-Karina Theresia — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Perl, Anne-Karina Theresia
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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.