Using high molecular weight hyaluronic acid to treat lung injury from severe pneumonia or sepsis

Therapeutic Use of High Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid in Acute Lung Injury Following Severe Bacterial Pneumonia or Sepsis

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10991624

This study is looking at whether a special type of hyaluronic acid can help improve lung function and reduce inflammation in patients with serious lung problems caused by severe pneumonia or sepsis.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991624 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW HA) as a treatment for acute lung injury caused by severe bacterial pneumonia or sepsis. The study aims to understand how HMW HA can help restore the normal function of the lung's air-blood barrier, which is often compromised in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). By administering HMW HA, the researchers hope to reduce inflammation and improve lung function in critically ill patients. The approach is based on previous findings that suggest HMW HA has beneficial properties that counteract the harmful effects of its low molecular weight counterpart.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients diagnosed with acute lung injury resulting from severe bacterial pneumonia or sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients with lung injuries not related to bacterial pneumonia or sepsis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new therapeutic option that significantly reduces mortality and improves recovery in patients suffering from ARDS due to pneumonia or sepsis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with the use of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid in treating lung disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-13 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.