Understanding how SARS-CoV-2 affects immune cells and causes lung injury
Mechanisms and pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2-induced neutrophil extracellular traps
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called neutrophils might cause lung problems in people with COVID-19 by releasing harmful substances, and it hopes to find new ways to help treat these lung issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898860 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neutrophils, a type of immune cell, in the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. The study focuses on how these cells release substances known as neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which can contribute to lung damage. By examining blood samples from patients and conducting laboratory experiments, the researchers aim to identify ways to neutralize the harmful effects of NETs, potentially leading to new treatments for COVID-19 related lung injuries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients diagnosed with COVID-19 who are experiencing or at risk of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms who do not develop respiratory complications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that reduce lung damage in COVID-19 patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting neutrophil extracellular traps can reduce lung injury in other viral infections, suggesting a promising avenue for treatment in COVID-19.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Looney, Mark Roberts — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Looney, Mark Roberts
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 below.