Investigating how myeloid cells respond to SARS-CoV-2 and affect lung immunity
Official title: Myeloid cell TRAF6 signaling in SARS-CoV-2-induced dysregulated lung immunity
Funded at Oklahoma State University Stillwater · NIH-11094918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the lungs react to the COVID-19 virus and cause inflammation, and it's aimed at finding ways to lessen this harmful response while still helping the body fight off the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma State University Stillwater NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stillwater, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $184,519 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI186028-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing severe respiratory symptoms or complications from COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms or those who have fully recovered from the virus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how myeloid cells, a type of immune cell, contribute to lung inflammation and injury caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. By studying mouse models, the researchers aim to identify the specific factors that lead to excessive immune responses and pneumonia in COVID-19 patients. They will explore the role of TRAF6, a signaling molecule, in regulating these immune responses, with the goal of finding ways to reduce harmful inflammation while preserving the body's ability to fight the virus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce lung damage and improve recovery for COVID-19 patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting immune signaling pathways can effectively modulate inflammatory responses in viral infections, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Oklahoma State University Stillwater
Stillwater, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Channappanavar, Rudragouda — Oklahoma State University Stillwater
- Study coordinator: Channappanavar, Rudragouda
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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.