Investigating how certain immune cells protect the lungs from 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-11166932 · 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 ways to make vaccines better so they can offer longer-lasting protection for everyone.
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) | $92,708 |
| NIH project number | 3R21AI175883-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11166932 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 affected by COVID-19 or influenza.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic lung diseases or those who do not have a history of respiratory infections may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of lung-resident CD4 memory T cells in providing immunity against respiratory infections like COVID-19 and influenza. It aims to identify the precursors that develop into these protective cells and understand their longevity and function in the lungs. By studying how these immune cells respond to various respiratory pathogens, the research seeks to improve vaccine strategies for long-lasting protection. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective vaccines and treatments for respiratory infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of vaccines that provide stronger and longer-lasting immunity against respiratory infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of T cells in respiratory immunity, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
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.