Understanding how different types of immune cells affect severe COVID-19 lung injury
Official title: Neutrophil Heterogeneity and Immunopathogenesis of COVID-19 ARDS
Funded at University of Louisville · NIH-11017715 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called neutrophils might be causing lung problems in people with severe COVID-19, and if you join, you'll help us learn more about these cells to find better treatments for you and others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $556,881 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI172873-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017715 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are hospitalized COVID-19 patients who are experiencing or at risk of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms or those who have fully recovered from the virus may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neutrophils, a type of immune cell, in causing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in patients with severe COVID-19. By examining the different populations of neutrophils and their functions, the study aims to uncover how these cells contribute to lung injury and inflammation. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to analyze the behavior of these immune cells in patients, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Patients participating in this research may undergo blood tests and other assessments to help identify the specific neutrophil populations involved in their condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from severe COVID-19 and ARDS.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in COVID-19, but this specific focus on neutrophil heterogeneity is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Louisville
Louisville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Jun — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Yan, Jun
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Different neutrophils in severe COVID-19 lung failure
This work looks at how different neutrophils cause severe COVID-19 lung failure to help guide better treatments.
-
Structural factors linking minimum wage, COVID-19, and community violence
A long-term study will explore whether higher minimum wages and pandemic-related economic factors are connected to changes in violence in US communities.
-
COVID-19 healthcare disruptions and heart health inequities in NYC adults with multiple conditions
This project looks at how COVID-19-related gaps in care affected heart health in adults with several chronic conditions in New York City.
-
Modifying body fat to aid COVID-19 recovery through behavioral strategies
A study in veterans explores whether changing weight through lifestyle habits can improve recovery after COVID-19–related health problems.
-
Coordinating ARDS, Pneumonia, and Sepsis research to improve care
A national coordinating center helps researchers studying ARDS and related infections work together more efficiently to learn what helps patients recover.
-
Post-COVID Neuro-Cognitive Changes in Older African Americans
A study explores how COVID-19 affects thinking, memory, and daily life in older African American adults and what might be driving these changes.
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.