Protective Protein Reverses Pulmonary Hypertension in Preclinical Models

Researchers at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion have identified a naturally occurring protein that protects lung blood vessels and may offer a new therapeutic avenue for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The protein, which helps maintain vascular health, was shown to reverse hallmark features of PAH when its expression was increased in preclinical animal models. Specifically, heightened levels of the protein reduced pulmonary vascular remodeling—a thickening and stiffening of the arteries that impedes blood flow—and improved associated heart dysfunction.

The findings suggest that augmenting this protective protein could address the underlying vascular pathology of PAH rather than merely managing symptoms. While the results are limited to preclinical studies, they provide a foundation for further investigation into protein‑based interventions aimed at restoring normal lung vasculature and cardiac function in patients with this progressive disease.