Exploring dietary changes to improve immune responses in obese individuals during viral infections
Utilizing alternative dietary interventions to alter gut microbiome and improve T cell responses to viral infection in obesity
This study is looking at how different diets can change the bacteria in your gut and help your immune system fight off viruses, like the flu and COVID-19, especially for people who are dealing with obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10988321 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how alternative dietary interventions can modify the gut microbiome and enhance T cell responses to viral infections in individuals with obesity. The study focuses on understanding the relationship between T cell function, metabolism, and obesity-related inflammation, particularly in response to viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2. By analyzing the metabolic profiles of T cells from obese individuals, the research aims to identify effective dietary strategies that could improve immune responses and overall health outcomes for this population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity who are at risk for viral infections and are interested in dietary interventions.
Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or those who do not have a history of viral infections may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to dietary recommendations that significantly enhance immune function in obese patients, reducing their risk of severe viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that dietary changes can positively influence gut microbiome composition and immune responses, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maciver, Nancie — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Maciver, Nancie
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 below.