Using machine learning to improve treatment for patients with shortness of breath

SCH: Leveraging Clinical Time Series to Learn Optimal Treatment of Acute Dyspnea

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10458527

This study is exploring a new way to help doctors treat patients who are having trouble breathing by using smart technology to find out which treatments work best for them in real-time.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10458527 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the treatment of patients experiencing acute dyspnea, or shortness of breath, by utilizing a novel machine learning approach known as reinforcement learning. Instead of merely diagnosing conditions, this method analyzes clinical time-series data from electronic health records to determine how different treatments affect patient outcomes. By simulating various treatment strategies, the framework aims to provide physicians with real-time insights into the most effective interventions for their patients. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients whose symptoms may arise from multiple overlapping conditions, making treatment decisions complex.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients hospitalized with acute dyspnea and signs of respiratory failure.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic, stable respiratory conditions who do not experience acute episodes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment strategies for patients suffering from acute dyspnea.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using machine learning approaches for treatment optimization, indicating potential success for this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.