Babies with chronic lung disease may have to endure a long hospital stay. Even when they are discharged, some will still be vulnerable to infection and may be frequently re-admitted to hospital.

Preventing any trauma or scarring to the lungs during the first few months of life could make a lifetime of difference to these babies and their breathing ability as they grow.

What we’re doing

Previous research has shown that babies who develop chronic lung disease have persisting lung inflammation and are not able to recruit immune cells to clear the inflammation. Sparks researchers think this is due to disruption of a ‘signalling pathway’ (called the interleukin-6 trans-signalling pathway) which may prevent the body from making an effective immune response.

The Cardiff-based research team will investigate the role of this cell signalling pathway in babies who develop chronic lung disease.

The potential impact

This powerful research into the causes and development of chronic lung disease could help doctors develop effective treatments to prevent chronic lung disease in vulnerable babies.

Location

Cardiff School of Medicine

Cost

£196,683 over 36 months

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