USA Scientists Awarded Research Grant

The National Institutes of Health has awarded a two-year, $423,500 grant to University of South Alabama (USA) scientists to conduct research on the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and its role in activating neutrophils to protect against bacterial infections. The principal investigators are Dr. Jonathon P. Audia, a professor of microbiology and immunology, and Dr. Robert A. Barrington, an associate professor of microbiology and immunology. The APP is best known for producing amyloid-beta, a key pathogenic molecule implicated in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. However, there have been relatively few studies on the normal biological functions of APP, noted Audia. This research may also cast light on mechanisms underlying the long-term health problems faced by patients’ recovery after intensive care unit stays. Audia and Barrington said they previously made the exciting discovery that APP plays an important role in directing neutrophils during bacterial pneumonia.