Understanding how aging affects T-cell immunity in older organ transplant patients
Official title: Mechanisms and novel targets of T-cell Immunity in Aging
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11083600 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging affects the immune system of older patients who receive organ transplants, to find better ways to help their bodies accept the new organs and improve their health after surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 3, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $595,616 |
| NIH project number | 5P01AI175397-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083600 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are either waiting for or have received an organ transplant.
✕Less likely to help
Patients younger than 65 years old or those not undergoing organ transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique challenges faced by older patients receiving organ transplants, particularly focusing on how aging alters T-cell immunity. It aims to understand the specific immune responses in older adults, including how their T-cells function differently compared to younger individuals. The study will explore the metabolic changes in T-cells and how these changes impact transplant outcomes, with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets to improve graft survival in older recipients. By analyzing the immune system's behavior in aging, the research seeks to enhance treatment strategies for this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved transplant outcomes and reduced complications for older patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding immune responses in aging, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in transplant medicine.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tullius, Stefan Gunther — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Tullius, Stefan Gunther
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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.