Understanding how a protein called Tollip protects airways from flu infections and asthma flare-ups
Tollip inhibits IL-33 signaling during airway influenza virus infection
This project explores how a protein called Tollip helps protect the lungs from flu infections and reduces severe asthma symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11132927 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Asthma flare-ups caused by viruses like the flu are a major challenge because effective treatments are often missing. This project aims to understand how a protein called Tollip helps protect the airways from these viral infections and the inflammation they cause. Researchers believe Tollip plays a role in controlling a specific immune signal, IL-33, which is released during tissue injury and contributes to asthma symptoms. By studying how Tollip works, we hope to uncover new ways to reduce viral load, inflammation, and tissue damage in the lungs. This knowledge could lead to better strategies for preventing severe asthma exacerbations triggered by respiratory viruses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with asthma, particularly those who suffer from severe exacerbations triggered by respiratory viral infections like influenza.
Not a fit: Patients without asthma or those whose asthma is not significantly impacted by viral infections may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or preventive strategies for people with asthma who experience severe flare-ups due to viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the roles of viral infection and IL-33 in asthma are known, this project explores the specific protective mechanisms of Tollip, building on initial findings in animal models.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chu, Hong W — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Chu, Hong W
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.