Improving T cell function in older adults using a special protein treatment
Official title: Treating T cell immunodeficiency among older adults by a recombinant Foxn1 fusion protein
Funded at University of Connecticut Storrs · NIH-11094822 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help older adults boost their immune system by using a special protein to improve the thymus, which is important for making T cells that fight off infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Storrs NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2021 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $473,340 |
| NIH project number | 5R33AG072234-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11094822 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing T cell immunodeficiency or related immune challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 years old or those without any immune deficiencies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to enhance T cell development in older adults, who often experience a decline in immune function due to aging. The study focuses on a recombinant FOXN1 fusion protein that aims to rejuvenate the thymus, the organ responsible for T cell maturation. By injecting this protein directly into the thymus, the researchers hope to increase the number of thymic epithelial cells, which are crucial for T cell production. This could potentially lead to improved immune responses and better protection against infections and diseases in older individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the immune health of older adults, reducing their susceptibility to infections and enhancing the effectiveness of vaccinations.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using FOXN1 fusion proteins is innovative, similar strategies targeting thymic rejuvenation have shown promise in preliminary studies, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Storrs
Storrs-Mansfield, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lai, Laijun — University of Connecticut Storrs
- Study coordinator: Lai, Laijun
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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.