Understanding how Legionella pneumophila survives and replicates in immune cells
Official title: Role of epigenetic changes in intracellular survival and replication of Legionell pneumophila
Funded at Western Kentucky University · NIH-10939099 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the pneumonia-causing bacteria Legionella pneumophila tricks our immune cells to survive and grow, and it aims to find new ways to help patients with weakened immune systems fight off this infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western Kentucky University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bowling Green, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $177,467 |
| NIH project number | 1R16AI177410-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10939099 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with weakened immune systems who are at risk of developing Legionella pneumonia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with strong immune systems or those not at risk for Legionella infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the bacterium Legionella pneumophila, which causes pneumonia, survives and replicates inside immune cells called alveolar macrophages. The study focuses on the role of specific proteins, known as nucleomodulins, that the bacteria use to manipulate the host's gene expression and evade the immune response. By analyzing how these proteins affect the host's cellular processes, the research aims to uncover new insights into the mechanisms of infection and potential therapeutic targets. Patients with weakened immune systems may benefit from the findings of this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for pneumonia caused by Legionella pneumophila, particularly for patients with compromised immune systems.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in understanding bacterial manipulation of host cells, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Banga, Simran — Western Kentucky University
- Study coordinator: Banga, Simran
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.