Grant: CIHR Fellowship - PA: PPHE Research - Priority Areas

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening lung condition that occurs when fluid builds up in the air sacs, preventing enough oxygen from reaching the bloodstream. It affects about 10% of all patients in intensive care units (ICUs) and accounts for more than 40% of ICU bed usage every month. Current treatments for ARDS focus on supportive care, like mechanical ventilation, but mortality rates remain high. Recent advances in RNA biology have opened the door to new treatment possibilities. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small molecules that regulate the expression of specific genes, including those involved in inflammation and tissue repair. We have developed two promising RNA-based therapies aimed at treating ARDS. One of these therapies is a miR-193b-5p inhibitor. Our research has shown that miR-193b-5p contributes to lung injury in ARDS by reducing levels of key proteins that protect the lungs, including occludin and surfactant protein C (SPC). Occludin helps maintain the integrity of the lung tissue, while SPC is essential for normal lung function and helps reduce the surface tension in the air sacs. By inhibiting miR-193b-5p, our therapy aims to restore the levels of these important proteins, potentially reducing inflammation, improving lung function, and preventing further injury. We've seen promising results in preclinical models of ARDS caused by bacterial or viral infections, where this therapy reduced lung injury and improved survival rates. Additionally, this treatment may offer a more effective solution than current surfactant replacement therapies, particularly for adult patients, where these therapies have had limited success. This innovative approach could significantly improve outcomes for ARDS patients, reducing the burden on healthcare systems and offering hope for better treatment options in future respiratory pandemics.