Innate immune mechanisms of lung Ischemia Reperfusion (IR) injury in mice

We utilize a mouse model of lung ischemia reperfusion injury to investigate the details of this maladaptive process. By using fluorescent and bioluminescent markers to track the presence and activation status of inflammatory cells in live animals, we can determine the kinetics of the initiation, progression, and resolution phases of the lung IR-generated inflammation, as well as the effects of therapeutic interventions. We also aim to use fluorescently tagged bacteria as well to track active infections and identify the primary infected/sensor cell type(s). Understanding the interactions between lung IR injury and concurrent lung infection would allow us to design treatment and prevention strategies for severely ill hospitalized trauma patients.