Understanding how T cells control cytomegalovirus and immune suppression in tissues

T cell control of MCMV and tissue-localized immune suppression

NIH-funded research Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10794397

This study is looking at how certain immune cells help fight off cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections in the nose and salivary glands, using a mouse model to find ways to create better vaccines or treatments to stop the virus from spreading, especially for pregnant women.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10794397 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of T cells in controlling cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, particularly focusing on how the immune system functions in specific tissues like the nasal mucosa and salivary glands. By studying a mouse model that mimics human CMV infection, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that allow the virus to persist and spread in these areas. The goal is to identify pathways that could be targeted for developing vaccines or therapies to prevent CMV transmission, especially during pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant who are at risk of CMV infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who have already been infected with CMV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective strategies for preventing congenital CMV infections, reducing the incidence of birth defects associated with the virus.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune responses to CMV, but this specific approach focusing on tissue-localized mechanisms is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 Salivary Gland Virus DiseaseCytomegalovirus Infections
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.