How aging affects immune cell function and response to vaccines
The Influence of Aging on Plasma Cell Function and Bone Marrow Competition
This study is looking at how getting older affects important immune cells called plasma cells, which help us keep our immunity strong after vaccinations, and it aims to find out why older adults might not respond as well to vaccines so we can improve their vaccine effectiveness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10993265 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how aging impacts the function of plasma cells, which are crucial for maintaining long-lasting immunity after vaccination. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind reduced antibody responses in older adults, particularly how plasma cells behave in the bone marrow. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe the movement and survival of these immune cells in real-time, providing insights into why older individuals may have weaker vaccine responses. The findings could help identify new strategies to enhance vaccine efficacy in the elderly.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older, particularly those who are elderly and may have weakened immune responses.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or those with pre-existing conditions that severely compromise their immune systems may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccine strategies that enhance immune responses in older adults, potentially reducing their risk of infection.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune cell behavior can lead to significant advancements in vaccine development, suggesting that this approach has the potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ovando, Luis Jose — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ovando, Luis Jose
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.