Understanding how influenza virus affects cell death in lung cells
Official title: Analysis of the heterogeneity of cell death responses in the influenza virus-infected cells
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11137326 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the flu virus affects lung cells, trying to find the right balance between getting rid of sick cells and keeping healthy ones that help you recover, so we can discover new ways to protect your lungs while still fighting off the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $239,120 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI185240-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137326 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing severe influenza infections, particularly those with significant lung involvement.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mild influenza symptoms or those who do not have respiratory complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how influenza virus infection leads to different responses in lung cells, particularly focusing on cell death. It aims to understand the balance between eliminating infected cells and preserving lung function, as some cells can survive the infection and contribute to recovery. By analyzing the molecular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to identify therapeutic targets that could prevent harmful cell death while still allowing the immune system to clear the virus effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce lung damage during severe influenza infections, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cell death mechanisms in viral infections, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Degterev, Alexei — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Degterev, Alexei
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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.