Understanding how immune cells help heal lung damage from viral pneumonia in older adults
Mechanisms of regulatory T-cell mediated endothelial repair following viral pneumonia in aged hosts
This study is looking at how special immune cells called regulatory T-cells help older adults heal from serious lung injuries caused by viral pneumonia, with the goal of finding ways to improve recovery for those who are most affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10904716 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how regulatory T-cells (Tregs) contribute to the healing process of severe lung injuries caused by viral pneumonia, particularly in older individuals. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms that enable these immune cells to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation in the lungs. By focusing on the elderly population, who are disproportionately affected by conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), the research seeks to improve recovery outcomes. The principal investigator will develop skills and knowledge to better understand the relationship between Tregs and lung health throughout a person's life.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have experienced severe lung injury due to viral pneumonia.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger or have not experienced viral pneumonia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance lung recovery in older patients suffering from viral pneumonia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that Tregs play a beneficial role in lung repair in animal models, suggesting potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morales-Nebreda, Luisa — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Morales-Nebreda, Luisa
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.