Decreased AMP-kinase function in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells contributes to pulmonary artery remodeling in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn

American Journal of Physiology-Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology 2026 Open access

Read full text
Authors: Emily A. Mooers, Ujala Rana, Chintamani N Joshi, Adeleye James Afolayan, Ru‐Jeng Teng, Girija Ganesh Konduri
DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00229.2025
Cited by: 0
References: 53

Abstract

Our study reveals a novel mechanism for pulmonary vascular remodeling in persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). We identify a decrease in the function of a key energy sensor, AMPK, as contributing to pulmonary vascular remodeling through decreased mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation capacity, altered differentiation marker expression, and notch ligand imbalance. Our studies may provide translational significance as restoring AMPK function offers a new therapeutic target in PPHN to improve postnatal transition in PPHN.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Pulmonary Hypertension Research and Treatments Neonatal Respiratory Health Research Cardiovascular Conditions and Treatments

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology
Volume
330
Issue
4
Pages
L404–L415
Publication date
25 February 2026
Language
EN