Understanding how early influenza infections shape immune responses
A revised model for immune imprinting by influenza virus
This study is looking at how getting the flu as a young child affects your immune system later on, and it aims to find better ways to help your body fight off the flu in the future, which could lead to improved vaccines and treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10630279 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how early childhood infections with the influenza virus influence long-term immune memory and responses to future infections. The team will explore a new model that suggests CD4 T cells play a crucial role in this process, rather than just B cells. By using innovative vaccine strategies that target the respiratory tract, the study aims to prime the immune system to respond more effectively to various influenza strains. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved vaccines and treatments for influenza.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced influenza infections in childhood and are at risk for future infections.
Not a fit: Patients who have never been infected with influenza or those with compromised immune systems may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines that provide better protection against influenza.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses to influenza, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sant, Andrea Janine — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Sant, Andrea Janine
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.