Understanding how the thymus affects immune system function throughout life
Mechanisms of thymic stromal-immune crosstalk for homeostasis and naïve T cell licensing across life
This study is looking at how the thymus, an important part of our immune system, works with immune cells to keep us healthy as we age, especially focusing on how changes in the thymus affect the production of T cells that help fight infections and cancer, with the goal of finding new ways to boost immune function in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11016945 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the thymus, an important organ for immune function, interacts with immune cells to maintain a healthy immune system across different ages. It focuses on how changes in thymic function, particularly during aging, impact the development of naïve T cells, which are crucial for fighting infections and cancer. The study aims to uncover the cellular and molecular interactions that occur in the thymus and how these may be targeted to improve immune responses, especially in older adults. By exploring these processes, the research seeks to inform new therapies that could restore immune function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing weakened immune responses, as well as younger individuals interested in understanding their immune development.
Not a fit: Patients with fully functional immune systems or those who are not within the age range affected by thymic changes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that enhance immune responses in older adults, potentially reducing their risk of infections and improving cancer immunity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding thymic function and its impact on immunity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Corey Nicholas — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Miller, Corey Nicholas
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 below.