NIH-funded research R21 grant

Exploring how lung bacteria affect inflammation in COPD for people with HIV

Official title: Investigating the role of altered lung microbiome in fueling Th17 mediated airway inflammation in COPD among HIV-infected individual

Funded at Makerere University College of Health Sciences · NIH-10653253 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the bacteria in the lungs might affect inflammation in people with both HIV and COPD, and it hopes to find new ways to help manage lung problems for those living with these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMakerere University College of Health Sciences
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kampala, Uganda)
Project startJuly 1, 2022
Project endJune 30, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$123,120
NIH project number5R21TW012354-02
Project IDNIH-10653253 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults living with HIV who are experiencing symptoms of COPD.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have HIV or COPD may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between the lung microbiome and airway inflammation in individuals living with HIV who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). By analyzing sputum samples from participants in Uganda, the study aims to identify specific bacteria that may contribute to inflammation and immune responses in the lungs. The researchers will focus on understanding how these microbial communities interact with the immune system, particularly the Th17 response, to drive chronic lung issues in this population. The findings could provide insights into new treatment strategies for managing COPD in HIV-infected individuals.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management and treatment options for COPD in people living with HIV.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that the lung microbiome plays a role in respiratory diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Makerere University College of Health Sciences
    Kampala, Uganda
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Kayongo, Alex — Makerere University College of Health Sciences
  • Study coordinator: Kayongo, Alex

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.