Reducing lung damage in mitochondrial disease by targeting immune responses
Official title: Targeting the Nrf2 axis to reduce lung immunopathology in PolG-related mitochondrial disease
Funded at Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr · NIH-11080754 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic problems that affect energy production in cells can impact lung health and the immune system, especially when patients get bacterial infections, with the hope of finding better treatments for those dealing with these tough conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $37,797 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AI179168-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080754 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with mitochondrial diseases, particularly those with PolG mutations, who experience lung-related complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mitochondrial diseases not related to PolG mutations or those without significant lung involvement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mitochondrial diseases, particularly those caused by mutations in the PolG gene, affect lung health and immune responses. It focuses on understanding the immune alterations that occur in patients with these diseases, especially when they face bacterial infections. By using a mouse model, the study aims to identify mechanisms that lead to increased inflammation and lung damage, which could pave the way for new therapies that target these immune responses. The ultimate goal is to improve treatment options for patients suffering from these debilitating conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce lung damage and improve the quality of life for patients with mitochondrial diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting the Nrf2 axis in this context may be novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding immune responses in other diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Van Portfliet, Jordyn — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Van Portfliet, Jordyn
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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.