Investigating how IL-17 affects bacterial infections during flu
Pathogenic role of IL-17 response in Streptococcus pneumoniae nasopharyngeal pathogenesis during an influenza virus co-infection
This study is looking at how the flu virus can make bacterial infections, like those caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, worse in the throat, and it aims to find ways to help people with the flu avoid serious complications like pneumonia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10734055 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the immune response, specifically IL-17, in the development of infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae when a person is also infected with the influenza virus. By using a model that mimics how these infections occur in humans, the researchers aim to understand how the flu virus can worsen bacterial infections in the nasopharynx, leading to serious diseases like pneumonia. The study involves examining the immune response and inflammation in the nasopharynx of infected mice to identify mechanisms that could be targeted for treatment. This research could provide insights into preventing severe bacterial infections in patients with influenza.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are at risk of respiratory infections, particularly those with a history of influenza and bacterial infections.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of respiratory infections or those who are not at risk for influenza-related complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments or preventive strategies for patients suffering from respiratory infections during flu season.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the immune response in co-infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khan, Nadeem — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Khan, Nadeem
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.