Understanding how aging affects T cell survival in lymph nodes
Official title: The role of lymph node structural organization in naïve T cell decline with age
Funded at Mayo Clinic Arizona · NIH-11083154 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how aging affects lymph nodes and the survival of important immune cells called T cells, which help fight off new infections, and it's for adults over 21 who want to understand how their immune system changes as they get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $579,709 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG080037-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083154 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are interested in understanding immune aging and its effects.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 or those with pre-existing immune disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in lymph node structure that occur with aging and how these changes impact the survival of naïve T cells, which are crucial for fighting new infections. The study employs advanced imaging techniques to observe the lymph nodes and their interactions with T cells in adults over 21 years old. By examining the role of specific cell types within the lymph nodes, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to a decline in T cell numbers as people age. This could provide insights into improving immune responses in older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that enhance immune function in older adults, potentially improving their ability to respond to infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding cellular interactions in lymph nodes can lead to significant advancements in immunology, suggesting that this approach has the potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Arizona
Scottsdale, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lancaster, Jessica N — Mayo Clinic Arizona
- Study coordinator: Lancaster, Jessica N
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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.