Investigating how aging affects memory T cell function through CXCL13
CXCL13 as an aging-associated defect in memory T cell homeostasis
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-10995729
This study is looking at how a protein called CXCL13 helps keep our immune memory strong as we get older, which could explain why older adults often don’t respond as well to vaccines like the flu shot, and it aims to find ways to make vaccines work better for them.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10995729 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of CXCL13, a protein involved in immune response, in maintaining memory T cells as people age. By comparing T cells from younger and older adults, the study aims to understand why older individuals have weaker responses to vaccines, particularly against infections like influenza. The researchers will use advanced techniques, including CRISPR gene editing and single-cell RNA sequencing, to analyze how CXCL13 influences T cell behavior and identify the specific T cell populations affected by aging. This work could lead to improved vaccine strategies for older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may have weakened immune responses due to aging.
Not a fit: Younger individuals or those without age-related immune deficiencies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance vaccine responses in older adults, reducing their susceptibility to infectious diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses in aging, but this specific approach using CXCL13 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BEPPLER, CASEY — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: BEPPLER, CASEY
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.