Using engineered cells to reduce lung inflammation and aid recovery in ARDS
Official title: Cell Based Immunomodulation to Suppress Lung Inflammation and Promote Repair
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10940864 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $704,795 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL174616-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10940864 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome, particularly those experiencing hyperinflammatory responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic respiratory conditions or those not diagnosed with ARDS may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghanta, Ravi K — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ghanta, Ravi K
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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.