Understanding how lung cells help protect against pneumonia
Official title: Lung Th17 cells signal via fibroblasts, establish interstitial macrophages, and contribute to host protection
Funded at Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-10902794 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the lungs help protect against pneumonia from tough-to-treat bacteria, and it hopes to find new ways to improve vaccines that could help keep you healthier and fight off infections better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $53,167 |
| NIH project number | 1F30HL174095-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10902794 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk for pneumonia, particularly those with a history of recurrent infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are adults or those without a history of pneumonia or related respiratory issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific immune cells in the lungs, known as Th17 cells, in protecting against pneumonia caused by drug-resistant bacteria. It focuses on how these cells communicate with lung fibroblasts to enhance the immune response and recruit other immune cells, like macrophages, to fight infections. By examining the interactions between these cells, the research aims to identify potential vaccine strategies that could improve the body's ability to clear pneumonia-causing bacteria. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to better prevention and treatment options for pneumonia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines and therapies that enhance the immune response against pneumonia in children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing immune responses through similar cellular interactions, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Remcho, Thomas Parks — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Remcho, Thomas Parks
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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.