Investigating how growth factors affect thymus function and aging
Official title: The role of paracrine growth factor signaling in thymus function and age-associated dysfunction
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11160442 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the thymus, an important part of your immune system, changes as we get older and how we might be able to help it work better again, especially to boost the production of T cells that help fight infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $484,784 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG086271-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160442 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related decline in immune function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger or do not have age-related immune dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the thymus, an essential organ for immune function, changes with age and how these changes can be reversed. The study examines the role of specific growth factors and cellular processes in the thymus, particularly how they influence the development of T cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. By using advanced imaging techniques and genetic models, the researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that could lead to effective therapies for restoring thymus function in older individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance immune function in older adults, potentially improving their health and resilience against infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating thymus function through growth factors, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Griffith, Ann Venables — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Griffith, Ann Venables
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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.