Understanding how different types of neutrophils respond to bacterial infections after influenza.
Neutrophil heterogeneity and function in host defense during pulmonary infection
This study is looking at how a type of white blood cell called neutrophils acts differently when someone gets a bacterial infection after having the flu, and it aims to find out why these cells might not work as well in fighting off the bacteria, which could help improve treatments for people with serious lung infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911044 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how neutrophils, a type of white blood cell essential for fighting bacterial infections, behave differently during secondary bacterial pneumonia that follows influenza. The study focuses on identifying distinct subtypes of neutrophils that emerge in response to various infections, particularly comparing those from influenza-infected animals to those from bacterial infections. By analyzing gene expression patterns, the research aims to uncover why neutrophils from influenza-infected hosts are less effective at combating bacteria. This could lead to new insights into improving treatment strategies for patients suffering from severe respiratory infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals who have experienced influenza and are at risk for secondary bacterial pneumonia.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had influenza or are not at risk for bacterial pneumonia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from severe bacterial pneumonia following influenza infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of neutrophil specialization is emerging, this specific approach to understanding neutrophil behavior in the context of viral and bacterial infections is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deng, Jane C — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Deng, Jane C
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 below.