How pre-existing allergies affect respiratory viral infections in children and older adults

Pre-Existing Atopy and Respiratory Viral Infections

NIH-funded research Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-11012389

This study is looking at how having allergies might help protect young children and older adults from getting really sick from respiratory viruses like RSV, using mice to learn more about how the immune system works in these cases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012389 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between pre-existing allergies (atopy) and the severity of respiratory viral infections, particularly focusing on respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children under 5 and older adults over 65. The study utilizes mouse models to explore how atopy may provide a protective effect against severe outcomes from viral infections. By examining immune responses and specific cellular mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how allergies might influence the body's ability to combat respiratory viruses. The findings could lead to new insights into treatment and prevention strategies for vulnerable populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children under 5 years old and adults aged 65 and older who have a history of allergies.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of allergies or those who do not fall within the specified age groups may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for respiratory viral infections, potentially reducing hospitalizations and mortality rates in children and older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that pre-existing atopy may offer protective effects against severe viral infections, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.