Understanding how immune responses affect children with viral pneumonia

Elucidating the role of type I interferon signaling and macrophage-derived inflammation in the juvenile host with viral pneumonia

NIH-funded research Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-11021042

This study looks at how kids' immune systems fight off viral pneumonia, using young mice to understand why some children get really sick from respiratory viruses like the flu, with the hope of finding better treatments to help them recover.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11021042 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the immune system responds to viral pneumonia in children, particularly focusing on the role of type I interferon signaling and inflammation from macrophages. The study uses juvenile mice to explore how age-related differences in immune responses can lead to severe illness from respiratory viruses like influenza. By examining the recruitment of immune cells and their activation during infection, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to respiratory failure in young patients. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve outcomes for children suffering from viral pneumonia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who are experiencing viral pneumonia, particularly those without significant co-morbidities.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic respiratory conditions or significant co-morbidities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce hospitalization rates and improve survival for children with viral pneumonia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting immune responses can improve outcomes in similar conditions, suggesting that this approach may be promising.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.