How T cell immunity develops in children over time

Evolution of T cell immunity in blood and tissues over childhood

['FUNDING_U01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11035087

This study is looking at how kids' immune systems, especially T cells, grow and work differently than adults' when fighting off new germs like the coronavirus, with the goal of helping to create better vaccines and treatments for children.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11035087 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the immune system, specifically T cells, develops in infants and children, which is crucial for lifelong immunity. It focuses on understanding how children's immune responses to new pathogens, like the coronavirus, differ from those of adults. By studying immune responses in both mouse models and human tissue samples from pediatric organ donors, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow T cells to effectively respond to infections and establish long-lasting immunity. The findings could lead to improved vaccines and therapies for children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include infants and children under 11 years old, particularly those who have been exposed to respiratory pathogens.

Not a fit: Patients over the age of 11 or those with pre-existing immune conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance vaccine development and immunotherapy strategies, leading to better protection for children against infectious diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in children, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.