Could umbilical cord stem cells save lungs in ARDS?

NCT ID NCT03042143

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This trial tests whether a single infusion of stem cells from donated umbilical cords can help people with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe lung condition often seen in intensive care. The study first finds a safe dose, then randomly gives either stem cells or a placebo to 129 patients on ventilators. Researchers will measure lung function and side effects to see if the treatment is promising.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

umbilical cord stem cells

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new treatment for ARDS, a life-threatening lung condition with few effective options.

What could go wrong

This is an early-phase trial (Phase 1/2) with a small number of participants. The stem cell treatment may not improve outcomes or could cause unexpected side effects.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

acute respiratory distress syndrome adult acute respiratory distress syndrome COVID-19

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Royal Hospitals

    Belfast, Northern Ireland, BT12 6BA, United Kingdom