Understanding how biofilm bacteria affect immune responses to pneumonia.
Official title: Biofilm antigens drive natural immunity to Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10998450 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common germ called Streptococcus pneumoniae creates protective layers in the throat and how these layers affect our immune system, with the goal of finding better ways to prevent pneumonia, especially for those who are more at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,604 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186511-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998450 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include children and adults who are at risk for pneumonia or have a history of recurrent respiratory infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for pneumonia or do not have a history of respiratory infections may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae forms protective biofilms in the nasopharynx and how these biofilms influence the body's immune response. By studying repeated colonization events in animal models, the research aims to understand how the immune system generates antibodies against proteins produced by biofilm-forming bacteria. This could lead to insights into how to better protect against pneumonia, especially in vulnerable populations. The approach includes analyzing immune responses and the biological mechanisms involved in colonization and infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines or therapies that enhance immunity against pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding bacterial biofilms can lead to significant advancements in treating infections, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lane, Jessica R — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Lane, Jessica R
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.