How Hoxa9 affects blood cell development in older adults
Regulation of the lymphoid cell fate by Hoxa9
This study is looking at how a gene called Hoxa9 affects the way blood cells develop in older adults, with the hope of finding new ways to help boost their immune system and make them less vulnerable to infections and vaccines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10759393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Hoxa9 gene in regulating blood cell development, particularly in older adults. As people age, their bone marrow undergoes changes that can lead to a decline in immune function, making them more susceptible to infections and less responsive to vaccines. By studying how Hoxa9 influences the balance of blood cell types produced in the bone marrow, the research aims to identify potential therapies that could restore healthy immune function in the elderly. The approach includes experiments in mice to understand the effects of Hoxa9 deletion on blood cell formation and immune responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing immune dysfunction or related health issues.
Not a fit: Patients who are not elderly or do not have immune-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance immune function in older adults, improving their health and resilience against infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic factors in blood cell development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Medina, Kay Lynn — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Medina, Kay Lynn
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.