Understanding how lung memory T cells protect against COVID-19
Official title: The generation and protective function of lung tissue resident memory T cells following SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-11042145 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $863,551 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI167372-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042145 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or vaccinated against COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 and have not received a COVID-19 vaccine may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teijaro, John Ross — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Teijaro, John Ross
Related research
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How lung memory T cells protect you after COVID-19 infection or vaccination
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-
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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.