How aging affects lung cells during influenza infections
Official title: Role of ATII cell senescence in influenza pathogenesis in aging
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10741215 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain lung cells change as we get older and how they respond to the flu, hoping to find ways to help older adults breathe better and recover more easily from viral infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $448,270 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG083955-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10741215 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those with a history of respiratory issues or influenza infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have respiratory conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of alveolar type II (ATII) cells in the lungs, particularly how their function changes with age and during influenza infections. It focuses on understanding how aging impacts the energy production of these cells and their ability to respond to viral infections. By studying mice of different ages, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind increased severity of influenza in older adults. The findings could lead to new strategies for improving lung function and treatment outcomes for elderly patients during viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for influenza and better management of respiratory health in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding cellular responses to viral infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, Ian Christopher — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Davis, Ian Christopher
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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.