Understanding how certain immune cells protect against respiratory viruses
Official title: Mechanisms of CD8 TRM-mediated protection against respiratory virus transmission
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11125010 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune cells in the lungs can help fight off respiratory viruses, like different versions of the coronavirus, and it aims to find out how these cells can stop the virus from spreading and protect you from getting sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 26, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $640,735 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AI177703-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11125010 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to respiratory viruses or are at high risk for such infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for respiratory infections or those with pre-existing conditions that severely compromise their immune response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM) in the respiratory tract and their ability to recognize and respond to respiratory viruses, including variants of the 2019 novel coronavirus. By using a murine model, the study aims to uncover how these immune cells can limit viral transmission and protect against infection. The researchers will explore the mechanisms by which TRM can identify and eliminate infected cells in the respiratory epithelium, potentially leading to new insights into immune responses against respiratory viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing the transmission of respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that tissue-resident memory T cells can provide protection against viral infections, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kohlmeier, Jacob E — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Kohlmeier, Jacob E
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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.