Using engineered cells to reduce lung inflammation and aid recovery in ARDS

Cell Based Immunomodulation to Suppress Lung Inflammation and Promote Repair

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10940864

This study is testing a new treatment using specially engineered cells to help reduce inflammation and heal the lungs in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10940864 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel cell therapy to combat acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a serious condition affecting many patients. The approach involves engineering retinal pigment epithelial cells to produce specific cytokines that help suppress inflammation and promote lung repair. These cells are encapsulated in protective capsules to ensure they can deliver their therapeutic effects directly to the lungs without causing systemic side effects. By targeting inflammation at its source, this therapy aims to improve patient outcomes in ARDS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome, particularly those experiencing hyperinflammatory responses.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic respiratory conditions or those not diagnosed with ARDS may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce mortality and improve recovery rates for patients suffering from ARDS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using localized cytokine delivery for inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential success for this innovative approach.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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 Acute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
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.