Understanding how tonsils affect influenza virus evolution

TONSILS: AN UNRECOGNIZED ROLE IN INFLUENZA VIRUS EVOLUTION

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL · NIH-10676857

This study is looking at how tonsils might affect the way our bodies respond to the flu virus, which could help us better control the disease and prevent future outbreaks, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about flu infections and their impact on health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MEMPHIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10676857 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of tonsils in the pathogenesis of influenza virus (IV) to improve disease control and pandemic prevention. By studying tonsillectomy effects in ferrets and analyzing human tonsillectomy data, the research aims to uncover how tonsils influence immune responses and the severity of IV infections. The study will also explore the dynamics of IV infection in tonsils, providing insights into how these organs may contribute to the adaptation and spread of the virus. This work is crucial for understanding potential risks associated with future pandemics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and young adults who have undergone tonsillectomy or are at risk for influenza infections.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had tonsillectomy and are not at risk for influenza may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and controlling influenza pandemics.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding host factors in viral infections can lead to significant advancements in disease prevention, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

MEMPHIS, 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.