Investigating how genetic factors and sex influence respiratory infections in newborns
The role of surfactant protein-A genetic variant and sex in pathogenesis of neonatal respiratory syncytial virus infection
This study is looking at how a certain gene and whether a baby is a boy or girl can change how their immune system responds to RSV, a virus that can make little ones very sick, to help find ways to protect those who might be at higher risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10914247 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific genetic variant of surfactant protein-A and the sex of infants affect their immune response to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections. By using a specialized mouse model that mimics human genetics, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to severe RSV cases in young children. The study will explore how these factors influence the immune system's ability to fight off the virus, which is a leading cause of respiratory illness in infants. The findings could help identify at-risk infants and inform future treatments or preventive measures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants and young children, particularly those with a family history of severe respiratory infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are older than 21 years or those without a genetic predisposition to severe RSV infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of RSV infections in infants, potentially reducing mortality and improving treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors in respiratory infections, but this specific approach using the SFTPA2-1A0 variant is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Hershey, United States
- Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr — Hershey, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gandhi, Chintan K — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Gandhi, Chintan K
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.