Investigating how a specific protein affects immune responses to influenza infection
Official title: Role of Runx3 in the Regulation of Lung cDC2 by Influenza Infection
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler · NIH-11115835 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Runx3 helps the immune system fight off the flu virus in the lungs, using special mice without this protein to see how it affects their immune response, which could lead to better ways to boost our defenses against respiratory viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tyler, United States) |
| Project start | June 14, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $186,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI180922-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115835 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of severe influenza infections or those at high risk for respiratory viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have respiratory viral infections or those with underlying conditions that prevent participation in immune response studies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Runx3 protein in regulating immune responses in the lungs during influenza A virus infections. By using a special mouse model that lacks Runx3, the researchers will observe how this absence affects the immune system's ability to fight off the virus. The study aims to identify how Runx3 influences different types of immune cells, particularly CD4+ T cells and dendritic cells, which are crucial for mounting an effective antiviral response. The findings could provide insights into improving immune responses against respiratory viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing antiviral immunity in patients infected with influenza and potentially other respiratory viruses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that manipulating immune modulators can significantly impact the body's response to viral infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
Tyler, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tang, Hua — University of Texas Hlth Ctr at Tyler
- Study coordinator: Tang, Hua
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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.