How influenza affects the body's defense against bacterial pneumonia.
Influenza regulation of epithelial pneumococcal host defense.
This study is looking at how getting the flu can make it easier for bacteria to cause pneumonia, especially from a type of bacteria called pneumococcus, and it aims to find out how changes in the lungs during the flu can lead to this risk, which could help improve care for people dealing with flu-related issues.
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-10682497 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how influenza infection increases the risk of bacterial pneumonia, specifically focusing on pneumococcal infections that often occur after influenza. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which influenza alters lung epithelial cells, making them more susceptible to these secondary infections. By using advanced laboratory techniques, the researchers will explore the role of ion dysregulation in the lung epithelium and how it contributes to this increased vulnerability. The findings could provide insights into better prevention and treatment strategies for patients suffering from influenza-related complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced influenza and are at risk for secondary bacterial infections.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had influenza or those with pre-existing severe respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating bacterial pneumonia in patients who have had influenza.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the interactions between viral and bacterial infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrod, Kevin S — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Harrod, Kevin S
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.