Understanding how lung memory T cells protect against COVID-19

The generation and protective function of lung tissue resident memory T cells following SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination

NIH-funded research Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-11042145

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the lungs help protect us from COVID-19 and its variants after we've been infected or vaccinated, and it aims to find ways to make vaccines even better, so your participation could really help us understand this important part of our immune system!

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionScripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042145 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of lung tissue resident memory T cells in providing long-lasting immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infection and its variants. By examining the immune responses generated after COVID-19 infection or vaccination, the study aims to determine how these memory T cells contribute to protection in the lungs. The approach includes analyzing the types and longevity of these immune cells, which may offer insights into improving vaccine strategies and enhancing long-term immunity. Patients may be involved in providing samples or data to help understand these immune responses better.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or vaccinated against COVID-19.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 and have not received a COVID-19 vaccine may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines and therapies that provide better protection against COVID-19 and its variants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research on memory T cells in response to other coronaviruses has shown promising results, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndromeafter COVID-19 infectionafter infection by SARS-CoV-2after SARS-CoV-2 infection
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.