NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how a specific receptor affects immune response in Pneumocystis pneumonia.

Official title: The Role of the EphA2 Receptor Kinase Pathway in Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP)

Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10988290 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific protein in immune cells affects the body's response to a serious lung infection called Pneumocystis pneumonia, which often affects people with AIDS, to find new ways to help improve their immune system and reduce lung damage.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project startNovember 16, 2023
Project endOctober 31, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$195,698
NIH project number5R21AI181542-02
Project IDNIH-10988290 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with AIDS or other immunosuppressive conditions who are at risk for Pneumocystis pneumonia.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have compromised immune systems or who are not at risk for Pneumocystis pneumonia may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the EphA2 receptor kinase pathway in the immune response of alveolar macrophages during Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), a serious infection often seen in individuals with AIDS. The study aims to uncover how this receptor influences the attachment of the Pneumocystis fungus to immune cells and its subsequent effects on inflammation and lung injury. By examining the interactions between the EphA2 receptor and Pneumocystis, researchers hope to identify new therapeutic targets that could enhance the immune response in affected patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for Pneumocystis pneumonia, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality in patients with compromised immune systems.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown the importance of the EphA2 receptor in immune responses, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

  • Mayo Clinic Rochester
    Rochester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Limper, Andrew H — Mayo Clinic Rochester
  • Study coordinator: Limper, Andrew H

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.