Investigating how certain immune cells in the lungs protect against respiratory infections.
Official title: What Precursors Become Lung-Resident CD4 Memory that Protect Against Respiratory Infections or Cause Lung Pathology?
Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-10991016 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the lungs help protect us from respiratory infections like COVID-19 and the flu, and it aims to find out how these cells work and last over time to help improve future vaccines for better long-lasting protection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stony Brook, United States) |
| Project start | November 22, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $190,131 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI175883-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991016 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced respiratory infections or are at risk for such infections, particularly those with a history of COVID-19 or influenza.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of respiratory infections or are not at risk for such infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of lung-resident CD4 memory T cells in providing protection against respiratory infections like COVID-19 and influenza. The study aims to identify the precursors of these immune cells and how they function in the lungs, particularly their longevity and effectiveness in combating various respiratory pathogens. By examining the mechanisms behind these cells, the research seeks to inform future vaccine development that could enhance long-term immunity against respiratory diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines that provide longer-lasting protection against respiratory infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding T cell memory responses, but this specific focus on lung-resident CD4 memory T cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
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State University New York Stony Brook
Stony Brook, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Devarajan, Priyadharshini — State University New York Stony Brook
- Study coordinator: Devarajan, Priyadharshini
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.