How CD8 T cells recognize antigens during long-term infections

CD8 T cell antigen recognition during chronic infection

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-10793497

This study is looking at how a type of immune cell called CD8 T cells recognizes germs during long-lasting infections, like those caused by viruses and parasites, to help figure out why these cells sometimes stop working well over time, which could lead to better treatments for chronic infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10793497 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how CD8 T cells, a crucial part of the immune system, recognize antigens during chronic infections caused by viruses and parasites. The study focuses on understanding the interactions between T cell receptors and antigen-presenting cells, which are essential for T cell activation. By examining the dynamics of these interactions, the research aims to uncover why T cell responses become compromised over time, leading to exhaustion despite the presence of persistent antigens. This work could provide insights into improving immune responses against chronic infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic viral or parasitic infections.

Not a fit: Patients with acute infections or those without any chronic immune challenges may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing T cell responses in patients with chronic infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding T cell dynamics, making this area of study both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.