How growth-factor signals affect thymus aging and recovery
The role of paracrine growth factor signaling in thymus function and age-associated dysfunction
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11319890
This project tests whether changing specific growth-factor signals can rebuild the aging thymus and boost immune cell production in older people.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11319890 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will use genetic mouse models and advanced imaging to study the thymus cells that decline with age, focusing on cortical thymic epithelial cells (cTECs). They will examine how FGF21 signaling, mTOR activity, and autophagy control cTEC size, shape, metabolism, and self-antigen presentation. The team will manipulate these pathways with genetic tools and drugs already available to see whether the thymus can regrow and produce healthier T cells. The goal is to define mechanisms that could guide treatments to restore immune function in aging.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future trials would be older adults with age-related immune decline or recurrent infections linked to thymic atrophy.
Not a fit: People whose immune problems stem from congenital immunodeficiencies, active chemotherapy, or autoimmune conditions unrelated to thymic aging may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to therapies that restore thymus function and strengthen immune responses in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies have shown experimental thymus regeneration and implicate FGF21/mTOR/autophagy in thymic biology, but translating these findings into human treatments is still novel.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GRIFFITH, ANN VENABLES — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: GRIFFITH, ANN VENABLES
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.