Investigating how fused immune and brain cells may create lasting immunity to infections
Official title: T cell/astrocyte fusions as a novel form of trained immunity to infection
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10861079 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how combining immune cells called T cells with brain cells called astrocytes might help protect against infections and keep our brains healthy, especially in mice that have had viral infections, to see if this could help us better prepare for future health challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $196,912 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS133561-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10861079 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced upper respiratory infections and may be at risk for cognitive decline or neurological symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had any recent infections or those with pre-existing neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the unique fusion of T cells, which are crucial for immune response, with astrocytes, a type of brain cell, to understand how this hybrid cell might provide long-lasting immunity against infections. By studying these fused cells in mice that have experienced viral infections, the researchers aim to uncover whether this fusion can protect against future pandemics or contribute to cognitive decline. The approach involves detailed histological studies and genetic analysis to assess the implications of these cellular fusions in the context of central nervous system infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing immune memory and protecting against infections that affect the brain.
How similar studies have gone: While the concept of cell fusion in the immune response is novel, there have been related studies indicating potential benefits of immune memory in the central nervous system.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moseman, E. Ashley — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Moseman, E. Ashley
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.