Understanding how the immune system fights respiratory viruses like influenza
Official title: Novel mechanisms regulating immunity to respiratory virus infection
Funded at Jackson Laboratory · NIH-10897885 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells, called mast cells, help our bodies fight off the flu and reduce harmful inflammation, with the hope of finding better treatments for people with respiratory infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Jackson Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bar Harbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 2, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $890,660 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174590-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10897885 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are at high risk for severe respiratory infections, such as those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for respiratory infections or those with stable, non-compromised immune systems may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the immune response to influenza viruses, which cause significant respiratory infections and can lead to severe complications like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The study focuses on the role of specific immune cells, particularly mast cells, in producing anti-inflammatory signals that may help protect against the harmful effects of the virus. By exploring these novel immune mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that could enhance the body's ability to combat influenza while minimizing excessive inflammation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for respiratory infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance immune responses against respiratory viruses, potentially reducing the severity of infections and associated complications.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to respiratory viruses, but this specific approach focusing on mast cells and their role in inflammation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Jackson Laboratory
Bar Harbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Paust, Silke — Jackson Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Paust, Silke
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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.