Understanding how aging affects immune responses to pneumonia after influenza infection
Official title: The role of PMNs and CD73 in host-resistance against S. pneumoniae / influenza A virus co-infection
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-10795038 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting the flu can make older adults more likely to develop pneumonia from a bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae, and it aims to find new ways to help boost their immune system against these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | February 24, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $189,818 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI167956-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795038 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those who have experienced influenza infections or are at risk for pneumonia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and have no history of influenza or pneumonia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how influenza A virus infection increases the risk of pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, particularly in older adults. It focuses on the role of specific immune cells, known as polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), and a pathway involving adenosine that influences immune responses. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to identify novel strategies to enhance resistance to infections in aging populations. The approach includes both animal models and human studies to better understand the interactions between these infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments and preventive strategies for pneumonia in older adults following influenza infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in similar contexts, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bou Ghanem, Elsa — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Bou Ghanem, Elsa
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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.