How Certain Immune Cells Protect Older Adults from the Flu
How Distinct Age-Associated B Cell Subsets Can Protect the Aged from Influenza
This research aims to understand how special immune cells in older adults can help protect them from influenza and new viruses, even when traditional vaccines are less effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172621 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
As we age, our immune system changes, making it harder for our bodies to create strong, lasting protection against new viruses like the flu, and current vaccines often don't work as well. This project explores a unique type of immune cell, called 'age-associated B cells,' which seem to offer protection in older individuals. We want to discover how these specific cells respond to infections and generate protective antibodies. By understanding these natural defenses, we hope to find new ways to boost immunity in older adults against influenza and other emerging pathogens.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on the immune system of older adults, particularly those who may be more susceptible to influenza and other viral infections.
Not a fit: Younger, healthy individuals whose immune systems respond robustly to standard vaccines may not directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for developing more effective vaccines or treatments to protect older adults from influenza and other viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon recent discoveries about age-associated B cells, exploring their specific role in influenza protection in a novel way.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Swain, Susan L — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Swain, Susan L
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.