Investigating how C-reactive protein helps fight pneumococcal infections
Official title: Complement-mediated anti-pneumococcal functions of C-reactive protein
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-10761734 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called C-reactive protein helps your immune system fight off infections from a common bacteria, and it aims to find out how this protein works early on and why it might not be as helpful later, which could lead to better treatments for infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Johnson City, United States) |
| Project start | February 5, 2020 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $370,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI151561-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10761734 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of severe pneumococcal infections, such as those with compromised immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for pneumococcal infections or those who have already developed severe infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the immune response against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. The study examines how CRP activates the complement system, which is crucial for eliminating bacteria during the early stages of infection. By using murine models, researchers will explore the mechanisms through which CRP provides protection and why its effectiveness diminishes later in the infection process. Patients may benefit from insights gained about CRP's protective functions, potentially leading to improved treatments for bacterial infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance the body's natural defenses against pneumococcal infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that complement activation plays a significant role in immune responses, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Sanjay Kumar — East Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Singh, Sanjay Kumar
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.