Understanding T Cell Memory in Chronic Viral Infections
Official title: T Cell Memory to Viruses
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11113937 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special immune cells called CD8 T cells to see how they can be made stronger to fight off long-lasting viral infections, which could lead to better treatments for people dealing with these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | June 12, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $619,172 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI186330-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11113937 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic viral infections, such as those caused by lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus or similar pathogens.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute viral infections or those not experiencing chronic viral conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain T cells, specifically CD8 T cells, respond to chronic viral infections and how they can be improved for better immune responses. The focus is on a unique population of T cells that behave like stem cells, helping to maintain immune function despite ongoing viral presence. By exploring the mechanisms that allow these T cells to survive and function, the research aims to develop new immunotherapy strategies that enhance T cell activity and reduce viral load. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for chronic viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved immunotherapies that enhance T cell function and reduce viral loads in patients with chronic viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing T cell responses through immunotherapy, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ahmed, Rafi — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Ahmed, Rafi
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Administrative and Engagement Core for Breast Cancer Breakthrough in Kenya
A national effort in Kenya to speed up how we screen for breast cancer and connect women to treatment, using teamwork across institutions.
-
Collaborative research program to advance patient care
A multi-project research effort at Emory University aims to push forward medical knowledge that could help people with illnesses in the future.
-
Project-003: A multi-partner research program at Emory University
A multi-faceted NIH grant at Emory University aims to advance understanding in a focused area over several years to benefit patients with diseases or conditions connected to the research.
-
Project-002: advancing patient care through coordinated research at Emory
A multi-project NIH grant at Emory aims to translate findings into better care for people with a health condition by coordinating research efforts across teams.
-
Project-006: A Multidisciplinary Emory Initiative to Advance Medical Understanding
A multi-project NIH grant at Emory University aims to push forward medical knowledge in areas that could eventually help patients.
-
Project-005: A multi-component research effort at Emory University
A multi-part NIH grant from Emory University aims to advance understanding in a specific health area over several years with potential patient benefits in the future.
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.