Investigating how a bacterial factor causes cell death in lung cells
Official title: The Pseudomonas aeruginosa virulence factor ExoU activates pyroptosis
Funded at University of South Alabama · NIH-10991828 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a germ called Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses a special factor to cause lung cells to die in a way that can lead to serious lung problems, especially in older adults, and aims to find out more about how this happens to help improve treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Alabama NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Mobile, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176267-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991828 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are at risk of or suffering from lung infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without lung infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterium uses a specific factor called ExoU to trigger a type of cell death known as pyroptosis in lung cells. The researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which ExoU activates a protein involved in inflammation and cell death, potentially leading to severe lung injuries. By studying these processes, the research seeks to identify new pathways that contribute to the harmful effects of this bacterium, particularly in older adults who may be more vulnerable to infections. The approach involves laboratory experiments that analyze the interactions between ExoU and lung cells to better understand the underlying biology of this infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for lung injuries caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections, particularly in older patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding bacterial virulence factors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Alabama
Mobile, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Audia, Jonathon Peter — University of South Alabama
- Study coordinator: Audia, Jonathon Peter
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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.