Understanding how aging affects lung immune responses to viral infections
Modulation of Lung Immune Responses to Viral Infection
This study is looking at how changes in the cells lining our airways as we get older affect our immune system's ability to fight off viruses like COVID-19 and the flu, especially in people over 65, to help find better ways to protect and treat older adults during viral outbreaks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Jackson Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bar Harbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11059954 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how age-related changes in airway epithelial cells impact the immune system's ability to respond to viral infections, particularly in individuals over 65. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind increased susceptibility to infections like COVID-19 and influenza in older adults. By using advanced laboratory techniques, researchers will analyze how the lung's first line of defense, the airway epithelium, contributes to immune dysfunction in aging. The goal is to uncover insights that could lead to improved treatments and preventive strategies for older patients during viral outbreaks.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are at risk for severe viral infections.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without respiratory issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better protective measures and treatments for older adults against viral infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses in aging populations can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Bar Harbor, United States
- Jackson Laboratory — Bar Harbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Palucka, Anna Karolina — Jackson Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Palucka, Anna Karolina
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.