Investigating how age affects T cell signaling and immune response

Proteome-wide base editor screens to assess phosphorylation site functionality in immunosenescence

['FUNDING_R01'] · LA JOLLA INSTITUTE FOR IMMUNOLOGY · NIH-11072080

This study is looking at how changes in T cells, which are important for our immune system, affect their ability to fight off illnesses as we get older, and it aims to find ways to boost their strength in older adults.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorLA JOLLA INSTITUTE FOR IMMUNOLOGY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11072080 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the complex signaling pathways in T cells, particularly how phosphorylation events influence their function as we age. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR-mediated base editing and mass spectrometry, the study aims to identify and assess thousands of phosphorylation sites that play a crucial role in T cell activity. This could help uncover why older adults experience weakened immune responses, particularly against cancer and infections. The goal is to develop new strategies to enhance T cell function in aging populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing weakened immune responses or those interested in adoptive cell therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have issues related to immune senescence may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immune therapies for older adults, enhancing their ability to fight infections and cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully utilized CRISPR and mass spectrometry to analyze cellular processes, indicating a promising approach for this study.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.