Understanding how aging affects immune responses to influenza vaccines

Identification of Metabolic and Immune Deficits in the Aged Population and Their Restoration to Achieve Youthful Anti-Influenza Vaccine Responsiveness

['FUNDING_U01'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-10976440

This study is looking at how getting older affects how well the flu vaccine works for people aged 65 and up, so researchers can find ways to make vaccines better for older adults.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10976440 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how aging impacts the immune system's response to influenza vaccines, particularly in individuals aged 65 and older. The team will analyze immune cells from both younger and older participants before and after vaccination to identify changes in immune function due to aging. By understanding these changes, the researchers aim to develop new vaccines and treatments that can enhance the immune response in older adults, potentially leading to better protection against influenza. The study will involve detailed assessments of various immune cell types and their metabolic functions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are interested in participating in influenza vaccination studies.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those with pre-existing severe immune deficiencies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective influenza vaccines for older adults, significantly improving their health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune aging, but this specific approach to restoring vaccine responsiveness in older adults is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.