How aging affects the immune system's memory response to infections.
Official title: The impact of senescence on immune memory
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-10646811 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how getting older affects our immune system, especially how certain aging cells might make it harder for older adults to remember and fight off the flu, with the goal of finding ways to improve vaccines and boost their immune health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | September 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $453,163 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG081678-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10646811 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above, who are at higher risk for severe influenza infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under 21 years old or those without age-related immune decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how age-related changes in the immune system, particularly the accumulation of senescent cells, impact the body's ability to generate protective immune memory after influenza infections. It focuses on understanding the role of these senescent cells in older adults, who often experience a decline in immune response. By examining the mechanisms behind immune memory formation, the study aims to identify potential interventions that could enhance vaccine efficacy and overall immune function in the elderly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccination strategies and better health outcomes for older adults by enhancing their immune responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses in aging populations can lead to significant advancements in vaccine development and efficacy.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haynes, Laura — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Haynes, Laura
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Mapping the full range of human genome structure variations
Researchers are building better maps of the big and small differences in human DNA to improve precision medicine.
-
Understanding the full spectrum of structural genetic variation in human genomes
Scientists are improving how we detect complex DNA changes across many human genomes to advance precision medicine.
-
Mapping all kinds of genetic differences in human genomes to improve precision medicine
A national researchers team is creating better ways to find and understand big genetic differences in human DNA to help doctors tailor care.
-
Total Worker Health program for safer, healthier workplaces
A large, multi-year program aims to improve worker health and safety by addressing the whole work environment for people in real-world jobs.
-
Nfe2l3 helps retinal cells heal and may restore simple vision after optic nerve injuries
A scientist at a major university studies how a protein called Nfe2l3 could help retinal nerve cells regrow their axons and potentially restore basic vision after optic nerve injuries.
-
Nfe2l3-driven protection and optic nerve repair for vision
This grant explores how a protein called Nfe2l3 might help retinal nerve cells repair damaged optic nerves to restore simple vision after injuries.
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.