Project Grant R01AI203641

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases awarded the University of Virginia $713,396 on August 21, 2026, under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855) to conduct research on the molecular mechanisms of protective lung resident memory T cells.

The project examines how lung tissue-resident memory CD8+ T cells provide broad-spectrum protection against influenza infection, including heterologous protection against variant strains. The research focuses on a recently identified population of exhausted-like lung resident memory T cells (TRM-ELs) that differ transcriptionally and functionally from conventional resident memory T cells observed in other barrier tissues. Using genetic mouse models, multi-omics assays, and mucosal vaccination strategies, the research will define the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms maintaining these protective cells, identify molecular pathways driving their rapid protective responses during influenza reinfection, and evaluate immunization strategies to establish durable broad-spectrum protection, including against highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1).

Performance occurs in Charlottesville, Virginia. The period of performance extends through July 31, 2031. The assistance type is Project Grant.