Understanding how aging affects immune cells
Official title: Effect of aging and senescent cells
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11053514 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging and certain old cells affect the way our immune memory T cells work, which are important for fighting off infections, and it aims to find ways to improve immune health in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | March 11, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $541,381 |
| NIH project number | 5P01AI172501-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053514 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be experiencing age-related immune dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 years old or do not have age-related immune issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of aging and senescent cells on the differentiation and longevity of resident memory T cells, which are crucial for immune response. By using single cell assays, the study aims to explore how these T cells interact with various tissue cell types in both humans and mice. The research will also examine how the age of the organism and T cells, as well as the elimination of senescent cells, influence immune function. This could lead to new insights into immune dysfunction in older adults and potential therapies to enhance tissue immunity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immune function and health outcomes for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses related to aging, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Masopust, David — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Masopust, David
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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.