Accumulating evidence suggests that defects in alveolar macrophage function may contribute to the observed pulmonary opportunistic infections in HIV-1 infected individuals. This grantee will examine the role of fibronectin receptors in controlling the adherence and motile properties of alveolar macrophages. After identifying fibronectin receptors (integrins) on lung macrophages that bind to fibronectin, the investigators plan to use a mathematical model to guide them in examining the role of receptor-ligand (fibronectin) interactions in regulating the adhesive strength of alveolar macrophages. The role of this interaction in regulating the motile behavior of macrophages will then be determined. Finally the investigators will employ video microscopy and image analysis to test their hypotheses regarding relationships between cell speed and fibronectin density. Understanding these interactions could have broad applicability to other receptor ligand interactions and could provide important understanding of the interaction between cell surface receptors and ligands bound to structures in the extracellular matrix.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01HL050499-05
Application #
2771356
Study Section
Lung Biology and Pathology Study Section (LBPA)
Project Start
1994-09-30
Project End
2000-08-31
Budget Start
1998-09-01
Budget End
2000-08-31
Support Year
5
Fiscal Year
1998
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Pennsylvania
Department
Internal Medicine/Medicine
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
042250712
City
Philadelphia
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
19104