Spotlight on Dr. Rudragouda Channappanavar:
Pioneering Research in SARS-CoV-2-Induced Lung Pathology
09/09/2024
STILLWATER, OK – The Oklahoma Center for Respiratory and Infectious Diseases (OCRID) proudly announces that Dr. Rudragouda Channappanavar has been awarded two significant grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These grants, an R01 and an R21, will support his cutting-edge research into the molecular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2-induced lung pathology and immunity.
R01 Grant: Investigating ERK1/2 Signaling in SARS-CoV-2-Induced Lung Pathology
Dr. Channappanavar's R01 grant, entitled "Role of ERK1/2 signaling in SARS-CoV-2-induced dysregulated immunity and lung pathology," aims to explore the impact of ERK1/2 signaling on fatal inflammation and impaired antiviral responses caused by SARS-CoV-2. This project will also assess the therapeutic potential of blocking ERK1/2 signaling to both suppress fatal inflammation and enhance antiviral responses. The ultimate goal is to mitigate lung inflammation and severe disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses. The total award amount for this grant is $2,303,796, supported by NIH/NHLBI.
R21 Grant: Understanding Myeloid Cell TRAF6 Signaling in Lung Immunity
The R21 grant, entitled "Myeloid cell TRAF6 signaling in SARS-CoV-2-induced dysregulated lung immunity," focuses on the role of myeloid cell-specific TRAF6 signaling in causing excessive lung inflammation and impaired antiviral responses. This project aims to develop novel strategies to reduce lethal lung inflammation and provide protection from severe SARS-CoV-2 infection. The grant, supported by NIH/NIAID, provides $365,000 in funding for a 2-year period.
The OCRID Connection: Recruitment and Mentorship
Dr. Channappanavar was recruited to the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), Oklahoma State University (OSU) in 2021. Since his arrival, OCRID infrastructure has been instrumental in his research success. Dr. Channappanavar received Phase II project support of $340,000 from OCRID and participated in the OCRID mentoring program, which offers guidance on research projects, grant applications and career development of junior faculty.
"Funding from OCRID through the NIH COBRE mechanism and OSU-CVM was critical to generate the preliminary data required for the proposed work," said Dr. Channappanavar. "The OCRID mentors Dr. Lin Liu, Dr. Susan Kovats, and Dr. Clinton Jones have played a key role in reviewing several drafts of this grant application and providing critical feedback that was extremely valuable in successfully competing for funding."
Looking Ahead: Impact and Future Directions
The recognition of Dr. Channappanavar's research by the NIH underscores the importance of his work in understanding and combating SARS-CoV-2-induced lung pathology. His innovative approaches hold promise for developing new therapeutic strategies to address severe respiratory diseases.
Dr. Channappanavar's achievements highlight the vital role of OCRID in fostering groundbreaking research and mentorship. As OCRID continues to support and guide researchers, the center remains at the forefront of respiratory and infectious disease research, contributing significantly to scientific advancements and public health.