Improving antiviral resistance in disadvantaged communities through mentoring.
Enhancing Innate Anti-Viral Resistance Through A Community-Based Intervention
This study is looking at a program called Generation Exchange (GenX) that helps older African-Americans who may be struggling financially to feel more connected and purposeful, and it hopes to see if this can boost their immune system's ability to fight off viruses like COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10867263 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a community-based intervention program called Generation Exchange (GenX) aimed at enhancing antiviral resistance among older African-Americans who are socioeconomically disadvantaged. The program focuses on promoting eudaimonic well-being, which includes fostering a sense of purpose and social engagement, to improve immune responses against viruses like SARS-CoV-2. By conducting a randomized controlled trial, the researchers will assess whether participation in GenX can increase Type I interferon responses and decrease harmful inflammation in this vulnerable population. The study aims to provide insights into how community support can bolster health outcomes during pandemics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older African-American individuals living in socioeconomically disadvantaged urban communities.
Not a fit: Patients who are not part of the targeted demographic or those who do not reside in the specified urban communities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immune responses and reduced health disparities for older African-Americans during viral outbreaks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that community-based interventions can enhance well-being and health outcomes, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cole, Steve W — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Cole, Steve W
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.