How influenza infection affects heart disease
Immune mechanisms of influenzaâÂÂinduced exacerbation of atherosclerosis
This study is looking at how the flu can affect your immune system and possibly make heart problems worse, so if you have heart issues and get the flu, researchers want to see how your body responds and what that means for your heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10909184 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune responses triggered by influenza A infection and how they may worsen atherosclerosis, a condition that leads to heart disease. By examining immune cells from the lungs, aorta, and spleen at different stages of influenza infection, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that link respiratory infections to increased cardiovascular risks. Patients may be monitored for changes in their immune response and cardiovascular health during and after influenza infection. The goal is to better understand how influenza can lead to serious heart complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease or those at high risk for heart disease who may contract influenza.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have cardiovascular risk factors or who are not susceptible to influenza may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for heart disease in patients with influenza.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated a link between respiratory infections and cardiovascular events, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gopal, Radha — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Gopal, Radha
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.