Investigating how a specific protein helps the body fight bacterial pneumonia
Follistatin-like 1 Mediated Host Defense in Bacterial Pneumonia
This study is looking at how a protein called FSTL-1 can help boost the immune system's ability to fight off bacterial pneumonia, especially when the bacteria are resistant to antibiotics, with the hope of finding new treatments for patients facing this tough infection.
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-10868747 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called follistatin-like 1 (FSTL-1) in enhancing the immune response against bacterial pneumonia, particularly caused by antibiotic-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. The study aims to explore how FSTL-1 influences the recruitment of immune cells, specifically neutrophils, to the lungs and their ability to kill bacteria. By using preclinical models, researchers will investigate the mechanisms by which FSTL-1 and another protein, Nr4a1, work together to improve lung immunity. This could lead to new immunotherapy strategies for treating pneumonia, especially in patients with antibiotic resistance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals, both children and adults, who are at risk of or suffering from bacterial pneumonia, particularly those with antibiotic-resistant infections.
Not a fit: Patients with pneumonia caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those who do not have a significant immune response may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the immune response against bacterial pneumonia, potentially reducing mortality and improving recovery rates.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using immune modulation for bacterial infections is relatively novel, there have been successful applications of similar strategies in cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Campfield, Brian T — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Campfield, Brian T
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.