How eosinophils help fight bacterial infections in the lungs
Official title: Eosinophils as Effectors of Antibacterial Immunity in the Lungs
Funded at University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr · NIH-10984781 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of white blood cell called eosinophils helps boost the immune system to fight off lung infections, like pneumonia, especially in people with asthma, and it hopes to find new ways to improve treatment for respiratory infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $615,455 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL171137-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984781 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults with asthma or chronic lung conditions who are at risk for bacterial pneumonia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without asthma or chronic respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in enhancing the immune response against bacterial infections in the lungs, particularly during episodes of asthma. The study aims to understand how eosinophils can protect against pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, especially when combined with viral infections like influenza. By using laboratory models, researchers will explore the mechanisms through which eosinophils interact with bacteria and contribute to lung health. This could lead to new insights into treating respiratory infections in patients with asthma or other chronic lung conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with asthma and bacterial pneumonia, enhancing their immune response and reducing hospitalizations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that eosinophils can play a protective role in respiratory infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Samarasinghe, Amali — University of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Samarasinghe, Amali
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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.