How mitochondria help protect the body during infections
Official title: Mechanisms of host protection during infection via the mitochondrial unfolded protein response
Funded at University of Texas Arlington · NIH-11099268 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny parts of our cells called mitochondria help protect us from infections by turning on a special defense system, and it aims to find ways to improve our body's ability to fight off bacteria, which could help patients in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Arlington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Arlington, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $99,352 |
| NIH project number | 3R35GM128885-06S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099268 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with bacterial infections or those at risk of developing such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with viral infections or those not experiencing any infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, respond to infections by activating a protective mechanism known as the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt). By studying this response, the research aims to understand how mitochondria can help fight off bacterial infections and improve cell survival. The approach involves using model organisms to observe the effects of UPRmt activation on infection outcomes, focusing on how it enhances the body's innate immune response. Patients may benefit from insights gained about mitochondrial function and its role in combating infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing the body's ability to fight bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that enhancing mitochondrial function can improve outcomes in infection models, suggesting a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Arlington
Arlington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pellegrino, Mark Watson — University of Texas Arlington
- Study coordinator: Pellegrino, Mark Watson
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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.