Understanding lung development in premature infants

Integrated Molecular and Cellular Drivers of Alveologenesis

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11088232

This study is looking at how lung problems in premature babies, called bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), happen and aims to find ways to help their lungs grow better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088232 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a serious lung condition affecting premature infants. By examining the transition from saccular to alveolar lung development, the study aims to identify the cellular and molecular processes that lead to impaired lung growth. Using advanced imaging techniques and a neonatal injury model, researchers will explore how specific signaling pathways influence cell behavior and lung architecture. The ultimate goal is to uncover potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating BPD in vulnerable neonates.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are neonates born between 23-32 weeks of gestation who are at risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not premature or who do not have any lung development issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve lung development and reduce the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding lung development and BPD, but this approach utilizing advanced imaging and specific signaling pathways is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.