Understanding how bacteria cause excessive mucus in lung infections
Official title: Mechanistic triggers of excessive mucus during lung infections by bacterial volatile organic compounds
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10914231 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain gases made by a common bacteria can cause extra mucus in the lungs of people with Cystic Fibrosis, with the goal of finding out how this happens and what it means for lung health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | August 25, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $184,882 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171524-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914231 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients with Cystic Fibrosis, bronchiectasis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who experience excessive mucus production.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without lung infections or those not affected by mucus hypersecretion may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa lead to excessive mucus production in the airways of patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). The study aims to identify these VOCs, understand the mechanisms behind their effects, and assess their role in the progression of lung diseases associated with CF and other conditions. By examining how these compounds interact with lung cells, the research seeks to uncover new insights into mucus hypersecretion and its impact on lung function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to reduce mucus overproduction in patients with lung infections, improving their respiratory health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding microbial VOCs can provide valuable insights into lung diseases, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lau, Gee W — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Lau, Gee W
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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.