Understanding how skin immune cells remember infections

New mechanisms governing skin tissue residency memory T cells

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11061886

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the skin remember past infections so they can better protect you from future ones, which is important for fighting off viruses and cancers.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11061886 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms that allow immune cells in the skin to remember past infections and respond effectively to future threats. By focusing on tissue resident memory T cells, the study aims to uncover how these cells are formed and maintained in the skin, which is crucial for long-lasting immunity against viruses and cancers. The researchers will use mouse models to explore how these immune cells interact with local tissue cells and how they can be regulated to enhance protective immunity while preventing autoimmune responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of skin infections or cancers, as well as those interested in novel immunization approaches.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to skin immunity or those who do not have a history of infections or cancers affecting the skin may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunization strategies and therapies for infections and cancers affecting the skin.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tissue resident memory T cells, but this specific focus on skin immunity is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
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.