Understanding how aging affects immune cells

Effect of aging and senescent cells

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11053514

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 typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11053514 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who may be experiencing age-related immune dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 years old or do not have age-related immune issues may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Minneapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.