Understanding how the immune system affects pulmonary hypertension
Official title: Neuroimmune axis contribution to the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11126994 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells might play a role in pulmonary hypertension, a serious condition that can affect your heart, to find new ways to help treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00HL165026-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126994 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension, particularly those who have not responded well to existing treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pulmonary hypertension who are also experiencing other severe comorbidities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the immune system, specifically certain brain cells called microglia, in the development of pulmonary hypertension (PH), a serious condition that can lead to heart failure. The researchers will use advanced imaging techniques and animal models to explore how activated microglia contribute to abnormal signaling in the brain that affects heart function. By identifying these mechanisms, the study aims to uncover new potential drug targets that could improve treatment options for patients with PH.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve outcomes for patients suffering from pulmonary hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the immune system in other cardiovascular diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for pulmonary hypertension as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oliveira, Aline Cristina — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Oliveira, Aline Cristina
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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.