How daily body clocks affect immune cells fighting the flu
Adrenergic control of circadian rhythms in CD8 T cells responding to influenza
This project explores how our body's natural daily rhythms influence the immune cells that protect us from the flu.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11120914 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have internal clocks, called circadian rhythms, that are set by light and dark cycles and affect many systems, including our immune response. This work looks at how these rhythms, specifically through signals from the nervous system, guide certain immune cells called CD8 T cells in fighting off the flu virus. We are particularly interested in a specific receptor on these T cells and how it helps them respond effectively to infection. We also want to understand how things like jet lag might change these immune responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future studies based on this work might benefit individuals susceptible to influenza or those experiencing disrupted circadian rhythms.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments for influenza will not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand how our daily routines and nervous system affect our ability to fight off infections like the flu.
How similar studies have performed: This project aims to be the first to directly link a circadian rhythm receptor to T cell responses against influenza, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farrar, John David — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Farrar, John David
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.