How a bacterial protein binds to dying lung cells to cause disease
PspA binds necroptotic cells to cause disease and transmit
This study is looking at how a protein from a common bacteria interacts with lung cells that are dying in a specific way, especially when someone has the flu, to help us understand how these infections get worse and find better ways to prevent and treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908495 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the protein PspA from the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae binds to lung cells that are undergoing a specific type of cell death called necroptosis, which is enhanced by the Influenza A virus. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms behind this binding and how it contributes to the severity of infections caused by these pathogens. By examining the interactions between PspA and dying lung cells, researchers hope to uncover new insights into disease progression and transmission. The findings could lead to better strategies for preventing and treating infections related to these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with respiratory infections, particularly those affected by Influenza A and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Not a fit: Patients with non-respiratory infections or those not infected with Influenza A or Streptococcus pneumoniae may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from severe respiratory infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Influenza A virus.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial adhesion mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Orihuela, Carlos J — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Orihuela, Carlos J
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.