Researchers are exploring ways to coax the lungs to heal after viral infections by restoring the production of the VEGFA protein with specialized molecules. In experiments with animals, this approach showed improvements in lung function, suggesting the strategy can support regeneration of lung blood vessels after illnesses such as flu or COVID-19. The findings were reported in Science Translational Medicine.
Earlier work showed that removing the TGFBR2 protein halted the activation of VEGF-A, which in turn reduced the growth and renewal of the lining cells that form lung blood vessels. Without VEGFA signaling, the vascular repair process slowed, hindering recovery after lung injury.
In the latest study, scientists created lipid nanoparticles designed to deliver VEGFA messenger RNA directly to the cells lining lung vessels. When tested in animal models, researchers noted higher oxygen levels and, in some cases, faster weight gain following lung damage caused by viral infections. There was also a reduction in scar tissue in the lungs, indicating improved tissue repair.
Experts believe this VEGFA delivery platform could potentially aid recovery not only after viral infections but also in conditions like emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, conditions commonly associated with smoking. Still, validation requires testing across additional lung cell types to confirm broad applicability and safety before any human use.
In related work, earlier research reported that stem cell–derived cartilage helped repair rat joints, illustrating a broader trend of regrowing damaged tissues through cellular therapies and targeted molecular signaling. This broader context underscores the ongoing effort to translate molecular upgrade strategies into effective, tissue-specific healing approaches for the lungs and beyond. These advances are being tracked and evaluated by the research community to determine practical pathways for clinical development, including long-term safety and efficacy considerations. Attribution: Science Translational Medicine and related peer-reviewed reports.