Understanding how aging cells affect the immune system
Official title: Effect of senescent cells
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11053504 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging cells in our bodies affect our immune system, especially in older adults, to find ways to boost their ability to fight infections and improve vaccine effectiveness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | March 11, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $538,963 |
| NIH project number | 5P01AI172501-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053504 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those experiencing age-related declines in immune function.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have age-related immune deficiencies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of senescent cells, which accumulate with age, in influencing the adaptive immune response. It aims to understand how these aging cells impact immune function and contribute to increased vulnerability to infections, particularly in older adults. By studying the factors produced by senescent cells, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that may lead to improved immune responses and better vaccine efficacy. The approach includes using senotherapeutic compounds to potentially enhance immune control of pathogens.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immune responses in older adults, enhancing their protection against infections and the effectiveness of vaccines.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in using senotherapeutic approaches to improve immune responses in experimental models, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jameson, Stephen C — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Jameson, Stephen C
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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.