Investigating how a food additive affects immune response to influenza
Official title: The role of Nrf2 in T cell function and influenza
Funded at Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences · NIH-11132929 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common food additive called tBHQ might change how our immune system fights off the flu, especially by affecting important immune cells, and it hopes to find ways to improve flu protection through diet.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | July 6, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $543,080 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES035763-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11132929 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with varying immune responses to influenza, particularly those who may have experienced severe influenza infections or complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of influenza infections or those with immune system disorders unrelated to T cell function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how the synthetic food additive tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) influences the immune response to influenza. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which tBHQ affects T cell function, particularly the differentiation of CD4 and CD8 T cells, which are crucial for fighting viral infections. By studying the impact of diet on immune responses, the research aims to uncover new pathways that could enhance antiviral immunity. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments or dietary recommendations for better influenza defense.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing the immune response to influenza, potentially reducing the severity of infections and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that dietary components can significantly influence immune responses, suggesting that this investigation could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rockwell, Cheryl Elizabeth — Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Rockwell, Cheryl Elizabeth
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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.