Investigating how a metabolite helps protect the lungs during infections.
Intrapulmonary itaconate as a host-protective metabolite during ER Stress and Klebsiella pneumoniae infection
This study is looking at how a substance made by immune cells, called itaconate, can help protect the lungs from infections caused by a harmful bacteria, which could lead to new ways to treat pneumonia in seriously ill patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career 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-11077318 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific metabolite, itaconate, produced by immune cells, can help protect the lungs from infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae, a common and dangerous bacteria. The study will explore how itaconate influences the body's immune response and reduces tissue damage during these infections. By using animal models, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind itaconate's protective effects and its role in managing antibiotic-resistant infections. This could lead to new strategies for treating pneumonia in critically ill patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients who are at risk of pneumonia, especially those with antibiotic-resistant infections.
Not a fit: Patients with non-bacterial lung infections or those not critically ill may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance lung protection during severe bacterial infections, particularly for patients with antibiotic-resistant strains.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using metabolites like itaconate to modulate immune responses, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suber, Tomeka L — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Suber, Tomeka L
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.