Understanding how a bacterial toxin damages lung cells during pneumonia

Mechanism of Toxin Mediated Damage to the Lung Epithelium during S. pneumoniae Infection

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11061893

This study is looking at how a toxin from a bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae affects lung cells, with the hope of learning more about how pneumonia damages the lungs and finding better ways to treat it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN JOSE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11061893 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of a toxin produced by Streptococcus pneumoniae on lung epithelial cells. It focuses on how this toxin, pneumolysin, disrupts important cell junctions that maintain the integrity of lung tissue. Using a specialized culture system that mimics lung conditions, researchers will measure changes in cell behavior when exposed to the toxin. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms of lung damage during pneumonia, which could lead to improved treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of or currently suffering from pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Not a fit: Patients with pneumonia caused by other pathogens or those without lung epithelial damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that protect lung cells from damage during pneumonia infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial toxins can lead to significant advancements in treating infections, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

SAN JOSE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.