Understanding how plants develop immune responses over time

Dissect the Timing Mechanism for Immune Maturation in Plants

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA · NIH-10829932

This study looks at how plants become better at fighting off diseases as they grow older, using a common plant called Arabidopsis and its bacteria, to understand the genes and signals that help them develop stronger immune systems, which could also help us learn more about how immune systems work in animals.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ATHENS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10829932 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how plants gain disease resistance as they mature, focusing on a specific mechanism known as Age-related resistance (ARR). Using the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana and its bacterial pathogen, the study aims to uncover the genetic and signaling pathways that control the timing of immune maturation. By examining how microRNAs regulate this process, the research seeks to link developmental timing with immune responses, potentially revealing insights applicable to both plant and mammalian immune systems.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be agricultural scientists and plant biologists interested in plant immunity and disease resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with no interest or involvement in agricultural sciences or plant biology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of plant immunity, leading to improved agricultural practices and disease resistance in crops.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking developmental timing and immunity in plants is novel, there have been successful studies exploring plant immune responses and their genetic underpinnings.

Where this research is happening

ATHENS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.