How aging affects lung immune cells during pneumonia
Impact of Aging on Oxysterol Regulation of Alveolar Macrophage Function during S. pneumoniae
This work explores how aging changes the way our lung's immune cells respond to pneumonia, especially in conditions like ARDS.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115689 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
As we age, our lungs undergo natural changes, including how immune cells called alveolar macrophages work. These cells are crucial for fighting off infections like pneumonia and maintaining lung health. This project looks at how aging might alter the metabolism of these cells, specifically focusing on cholesterol-related molecules, which could lead to a weaker immune response and more severe lung injury. Understanding these changes helps us learn why older adults are more susceptible to severe lung infections and conditions like Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding the biology of aging and lung immunity, which could eventually benefit adults aged 21 and older who are at risk for or experience severe pneumonia and ARDS.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing or at risk for severe lung infections or ARDS, or those outside the adult age range, may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to protect older adults from severe lung infections and conditions like ARDS by targeting specific metabolic pathways in immune cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings from this team suggest that age-related stress in lung cells contributes to heightened inflammation during pneumonia, indicating a promising direction for this continued work.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stout Delgado, Heather Winona — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Stout Delgado, Heather Winona
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.