Using lipid rafts to improve asthma treatment

Targeting lipid rafts for treatment of asthma

NIH-funded research Raft Pharmaceuticals, LLC · NIH-11067792

This study is looking for new ways to help people with severe asthma who still have symptoms even with their current treatments, by targeting specific parts of their lung cells to improve their breathing and reduce flare-ups.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRaft Pharmaceuticals, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-11067792 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on patients with severe asthma who continue to experience symptoms despite current treatments. It aims to develop new therapies that target specific inflammatory processes in the lungs, particularly those involving lipid rafts, which are clusters of cholesterol-rich molecules in cells. By using a molecule called apoA-I binding protein (AIBP), the research seeks to selectively deplete these pathological lipid rafts in immune and bronchial cells, potentially leading to better control of asthma symptoms and fewer exacerbations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with severe asthma who have not responded well to existing therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with mild asthma or those who have well-controlled asthma with current treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for severe asthma, improving patients' quality of life and reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.

How similar studies have performed: While targeting lipid rafts is a novel approach, similar strategies in other inflammatory conditions have shown promise, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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 Lung InjuryAcute Pulmonary Injury
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.