Understanding how age affects the immune response to a common respiratory virus in children and the elderly
Age-dependent differences in the immune response to human metapneumovirus
This study is looking at how our immune systems respond to a virus called human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in young children and older adults, to help figure out why it can be more serious for older people, with the hope of finding better ways to treat and prevent it for those who are most at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896347 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the immune response to human metapneumovirus (HMPV) varies with age, particularly focusing on young children and the elderly. The study aims to identify the reasons behind the severe effects of HMPV in older adults by examining the behavior of CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for fighting infections. Using advanced techniques like 10X Multiomics and multispectral flow cytometry, researchers will analyze immune cells from different age groups to understand their response to the virus. The findings could lead to better treatments and preventive measures for vulnerable populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children under 11 years old and elderly individuals who are at higher risk for severe respiratory infections.
Not a fit: Patients who are not within the age groups of children under 11 or elderly individuals may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and treating respiratory infections caused by HMPV in children and the elderly.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses in different age groups can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, suggesting that this approach has the potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Parks, Olivia — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Parks, Olivia
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.