Investigating how ACE2 affects lung infections caused by influenza and bacteria
Official title: The role of ACE2 in Influenza viral infection mediated immune compromise and subsequent bacterial lung infection
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10823328 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called ACE2 in the lungs affects people with the flu and how it might lead to serious lung infections from bacteria, with the goal of finding better ways to help your body fight these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2020 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $546,821 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI148446-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10823328 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced or are at risk for influenza A virus infections, particularly those with compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of respiratory infections or those who are not susceptible to influenza may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of ACE2 in the lungs during influenza A virus (IAV) infections and how it may lead to severe bacterial lung infections. By studying the immune response and the interactions between IAV and bacteria, the researchers aim to identify new therapeutic strategies that could enhance the body's defense mechanisms. The approach involves manipulating ACE2 activity to potentially prevent or treat these dangerous co-infections. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for respiratory infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce the risk of severe bacterial infections following influenza.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating immune responses to improve outcomes in similar infection scenarios, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jia, Hongpeng — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Jia, Hongpeng
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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.