Understanding lung disease in individuals with Down Syndrome
Official title: Cellular Senescence in Trisomy 21 lung disease
Funded at Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center · NIH-10980392 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging cells and inflammation might cause lung problems in kids with Down Syndrome, hoping to find ways to help keep their lungs healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Torrance, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $625,799 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL171915-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980392 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults diagnosed with Down Syndrome who experience respiratory complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down Syndrome or those who do not have respiratory issues related to their condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the causes of lung disease in individuals with Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21), focusing on how cellular aging and inflammation contribute to respiratory complications. The study aims to explore the role of senescent cells, which can negatively impact lung function, particularly in children. By examining the biological mechanisms involved, the research seeks to identify early factors that lead to lung issues in this population. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving lung health in individuals with Down Syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and management strategies for lung disease in individuals with Down Syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on lung disease in Down Syndrome is novel, related research on cellular senescence and its effects on health has shown promising results in other conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
Torrance, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Al-Alam, Denise — Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Al-Alam, Denise
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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.