Understanding how oxygen affects airway cells in premature infants

Cellular Senescence in Neonatal Airways

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10879101

This study is looking at how moderate oxygen levels affect lung cells in premature babies, especially how some of these cells can become old and cause breathing problems, and it’s testing new treatments that might help improve their lung health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10879101 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of moderate oxygen levels on airway smooth muscle cells in premature infants, focusing on a phenomenon called cellular senescence. It aims to uncover how these senescent cells contribute to airway hyperresponsiveness and fibrosis, which can lead to breathing difficulties. The study employs both human fetal lung samples and neonatal mouse models to explore the mechanisms involved and tests potential treatments using senolytic drugs that target and eliminate these harmful cells. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to develop better therapeutic strategies for vulnerable infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include premature infants who are exposed to moderate oxygen levels and may be at risk for airway hyperresponsiveness and related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or do not have airway diseases related to oxygen exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for airway diseases in premature infants, potentially reducing the risk of long-term respiratory issues.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting cellular senescence in various conditions, suggesting that this approach may be effective in treating airway diseases as well.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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 Airway Disease
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.