Understanding how respiratory viruses affect immune response in lung cells
Official title: Silencer-enhancer transition dysregulates interleukin-6 in mucosal epithelial cell plasticity
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10988788 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called IL-6 affects lung cells when they fight off viruses like the flu, with the hope of finding ways to better manage inflammation and help people recover faster from respiratory infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | July 12, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $240,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI180682-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10988788 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults and older patients who are at risk for severe respiratory viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-respiratory viral infections or those without significant lung issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the immune response of lung epithelial cells during respiratory viral infections. By using advanced sequencing techniques, the study aims to uncover how IL-6 production is regulated in these cells, particularly when they undergo changes that affect their function. The goal is to identify the mechanisms that control IL-6 levels, which could help in managing inflammation and improving antiviral responses in patients. This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors that influence how lung cells respond to viruses like influenza and rhinovirus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for respiratory viral infections by better regulating immune responses.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to respiratory viruses, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Jun — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Yang, Jun
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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.