Investigating how HIV affects lung bacteria and inflammation
Official title: HIV-induced microbial alterations and inflammation in the lung of humanized mice
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11115658 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV affects the bacteria in the lungs and causes inflammation, using special mice that have human-like immune systems, to help find ways to improve lung health for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 13, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,375 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI181675-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115658 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy and may be experiencing lung-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not have any lung-related complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of HIV on the lung microbiome and inflammation in a controlled animal model. By using humanized mice, the study aims to understand how HIV alters the bacteria present in the lungs and how these changes contribute to chronic lung diseases. The researchers will monitor the dynamics of lung inflammation and microbial changes over time, providing insights into the mechanisms that may lead to complications in people living with HIV. This approach could help identify potential therapeutic targets for improving lung health in these patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating chronic lung diseases in individuals living with HIV.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated that understanding the lung microbiome in HIV-positive individuals can provide valuable insights, suggesting that this research could build on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shan, Liang — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Shan, Liang
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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.