How the body's internal clock affects immune responses to influenza
Official title: Adrenergic control of circadian rhythms in CD8 T cells responding to influenza
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10876387 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our body's internal clock affects the immune system's response to the flu, especially focusing on a type of immune cell called CD8 T cells, and it aims to help people understand how things like jet lag might change their immunity.
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 start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $617,814 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175217-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10876387 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are experiencing frequent influenza infections or have compromised immune responses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with their immune response or who are not affected by influenza may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of circadian rhythms in regulating the immune response of CD8 T cells to influenza infection. It focuses on how signals from the sympathetic nervous system, particularly through the β2-adrenergic receptor, influence T cell behavior and gene expression in relation to the body's biological clock. The study will explore how disruptions, such as jet lag, can impact these immune responses, aiming to uncover new insights into how timing affects immunity. Patients may benefit from understanding how their immune system functions in relation to their daily rhythms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing immune responses to influenza, particularly in patients with disrupted circadian rhythms.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between circadian rhythms and immune function, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farrar, John David — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Farrar, John David
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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.