Investigating immune responses and cell death in diseases caused by cytokines
Targeting innate immune pathways, and inflammatory cell death in cytokine-mediated diseases
This study is looking at how our body's natural defenses react to the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, especially to find ways to help people with severe symptoms feel better without causing harmful side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11101108 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the innate immune system responds to viral infections, particularly the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. It aims to explore the balance between effectively fighting the virus and preventing harmful overreactions of the immune system, known as cytokine storms. By studying the roles of specific inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IFN-γ, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could mitigate severe disease outcomes. Patients with COVID-19 who experience severe symptoms may benefit from insights gained through this research.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have experienced severe COVID-19 symptoms or complications related to cytokine-mediated diseases.
Not a fit: Patients who have mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 infections are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce the severity of COVID-19 and improve patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting inflammatory responses in viral infections, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanneganti, Thirumala-Devi — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kanneganti, Thirumala-Devi
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.