Using targeted nanomedicine to treat lung diseases caused by viruses
Official title: Targeted Gene Delivery Systems Treating Lung Diseases
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11111257 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to deliver treatments directly to the lungs using tiny particles, aiming to help people with serious lung diseases like COVID-19 and other viral infections, so they can get better care and feel healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $797,003 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL159558-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11111257 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients who have experienced severe lung injuries or complications from viral infections, particularly those recovering from COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-viral related lung diseases or those who do not have acute or chronic lung injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing targeted gene delivery systems using nanomedicine to improve treatment for lung diseases, particularly those caused by viral infections like COVID-19. It aims to modify specific cellular subtypes during both the acute and chronic phases of lung injury, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and pulmonary fibrosis. The approach involves testing the effectiveness of these nanomedicine strategies in animal models to address the significant unmet medical needs in treating these conditions. By targeting the underlying mechanisms of lung injury, the research seeks to provide more effective therapeutic options for patients suffering from severe lung diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from acute lung injuries and chronic lung diseases, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using nanomedicine for treating lung diseases, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tirrell, Matthew — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Tirrell, Matthew
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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.