New treatments targeting how lung cells respond to pneumonia infections
Novel Therapies Targeting Mitochondrial Pathways in Lung Epithelial Response to S. Pneumoniae Infection
This study is looking at how a common bacteria that causes pneumonia affects lung cells and their ability to heal, with the goal of finding new ways to help the body fight off infections better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Decatur, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11098541 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae affects lung cells, particularly looking at the damage it causes to mitochondrial DNA and how this impacts the immune response. The project aims to explore the relationship between bacterial factors and the body's ability to repair this damage, which could lead to new therapies. The research is being conducted by Dr. Nicholas Maurice, who is receiving mentorship from experts in the field at the Atlanta VA Medical Center and Emory University. By investigating these mechanisms, the research hopes to identify ways to enhance the body's defense against pneumonia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly older adults, who are at risk for pneumonia or have experienced pneumonia infections.
Not a fit: Patients with pneumonia caused by non-bacterial pathogens or those without significant mitochondrial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve lung health and immune response in patients with pneumonia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing mitochondrial function to improve immune responses, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Decatur, UNITED STATES
- Veterans Health Administration — Decatur, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maurice, Nicholas Michael — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Maurice, Nicholas Michael
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.