Leptin and fat cells: how obesity may worsen lung infections like COVID-19 and flu

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project looks at how dysfunctional fat cells and the leptin hormone affect lung immune responses during infections with influenza A and coronaviruses. It uses biological models to understand how obesity-related changes could make the lungs more vulnerable to viral damage. The researchers aim to identify signals from adipocytes that alter airway and alveolar defenses, potentially leading to worse outcomes. The goal is to uncover targets in the leptin pathway that could guide new therapies for at-risk patients.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
  Baton Rouge, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Carossino, Mariano — Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge
• Study coordinator: Carossino, Mariano

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.