NIH-funded research R01 grant

Understanding lung injury and healing in Pompe Disease

Official title: Alveolar injury and repair in Pompe Disease

Funded at Duke University · NIH-11041606 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how Pompe Disease affects lung cells and their healing abilities, especially focusing on a part of the cells that helps keep your lungs working well, to find out why people with this condition often have breathing problems, and it’s exploring a way to deliver the missing enzyme to help improve lung health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project startJanuary 29, 2025
Project endNovember 30, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$762,974
NIH project number1R01HL177642-01
Project IDNIH-11041606 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Pompe Disease, particularly those experiencing respiratory complications.

Less likely to help

Patients with Pompe Disease who do not have respiratory issues may not benefit directly from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how Pompe Disease, caused by a deficiency in the enzyme acid alpha-glucosidase, affects lung cells and their ability to repair after injury. The study focuses on the role of lysosomes in alveolar cells, which are crucial for maintaining lung function. By examining the cellular architecture and autophagy processes in these cells, the research aims to uncover why patients with Pompe Disease often experience respiratory issues despite existing treatments. The approach includes using adeno-associated viruses to deliver the missing enzyme to improve lung health.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that enhance lung function and reduce respiratory complications in patients with Pompe Disease.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in addressing similar respiratory complications in other genetic disorders, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

  • Duke University
    Durham, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Elmallah, Mai — Duke University
  • Study coordinator: Elmallah, Mai

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.
Browse more
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.