Understanding how B cells control infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae
Official title: Role of B cells in controlling Klebsiella pneumoniae associated disease states
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10847459 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of immune cell called B cells helps fight off infections from a germ called Klebsiella pneumoniae, which can cause serious illnesses, especially in hospitals, and it aims to find ways to improve treatments for people who are at risk of these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | May 25, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $232,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI178595-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10847459 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with compromised immune systems who are at higher risk for Klebsiella pneumoniae infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with healthy immune systems and no history of Klebsiella pneumoniae infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of B cells in managing infections caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae, a significant pathogen responsible for severe healthcare-associated infections. The study uses a mouse model to explore how B cells help regulate the growth of this bacterium in the gastrointestinal tract and prevent its spread into the bloodstream. By examining the immune response, particularly the production of antibodies, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for patients at risk of severe infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating Klebsiella pneumoniae infections, potentially reducing mortality rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses to bacterial infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haas, Karen M — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Haas, Karen M
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.