Understanding how infections affect cell survival and death.

Identification of the molecular regulation between cell survival and cell death in response to infection induced inflammasome activation.

NIH-funded research South Dakota State University · NIH-11035196

This study is looking at how our cells decide to either fight off infections or give up and die, focusing on specific proteins that play a big role in this process, which could help us find better treatments for infections in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSouth Dakota State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Brookings, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035196 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that determine whether cells survive or die in response to infections, focusing on the role of inflammasomes and caspases. Inflammasomes are protein complexes that detect pathogens and can trigger cell death through a process called pyroptosis. The study aims to uncover how certain signals influence whether a cell repairs itself or undergoes death, which is crucial for developing new treatments for infections. By examining the interactions between different proteins involved in this process, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to better therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve immune responses to infections, particularly those related to cell death mechanisms.

Not a fit: Patients with non-infectious conditions or those not affected by immune response-related cell death may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance cell survival during infections, potentially improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding inflammasome activation and its effects on cell death, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Brookings, 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 2026-06-15 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.