Investigating how viral infections affect children with tracheostomies and their microbiomes
Official title: Viral respiratory infections in a tracheostomy cohort: Microbiome-host interplay
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10883774 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at children with tracheostomies who are more likely to get serious respiratory infections, to see how the germs in their airways and their immune system work together during these infections, with the hope of finding better ways to treat them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $884,790 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI173142-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10883774 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have a tracheostomy and are at risk for acute respiratory infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a tracheostomy or are outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on children with tracheostomies who are at high risk for severe acute respiratory infections (ARIs). It aims to understand the interplay between the microbiome and the host's immune response during these infections. By analyzing the airway ecosystem, the study seeks to identify how changes in bacterial populations during viral infections may influence the severity of ARIs. The ultimate goal is to develop more effective treatment strategies tailored to this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and reduced mortality rates for children with tracheostomies suffering from viral respiratory infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that understanding the microbiome's role in respiratory infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mansbach, Jonathan M — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Mansbach, Jonathan M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Novel Tracheostomy Alert Device for Children and Adults
A new, affordable sensor and loud alert system will warn caregivers if a tracheostomy tube is blocked or comes out, with a focus on protecting children who have the procedure.
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EPIPHANY: Using AI to guide when to do tracheostomy for patients on long ventilators
An AI-based platform aims to help ICU teams decide the best time for tracheostomy in patients on prolonged mechanical ventilation, potentially reducing complications and costs.
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Airway microbes and viral infections in children with tracheostomies
This project looks at how airway germs and the body's response during viral infections affect illness in children who have tracheostomies and use home ventilation.
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Understanding infections in children with tracheostomies
This study is looking at what causes respiratory infections in children with tracheostomies, so we can better understand which kids might get sick more often and help them stay healthier.
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Understanding and treating infections in children with tracheostomies
This study looks at how doctors treat bacterial infections in children with tracheostomies, especially those caused by a tough germ called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, to find better ways to help these kids get the right care.
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Creating a tool to help families make decisions about tracheostomy in the ICU
This study is working to make it easier for families to make decisions about tracheostomy procedures in the ICU by creating a helpful tool that addresses their specific questions and worries.
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.