The major objective of this project is to analyze the requirements for the activation and maintenance of a virus-specific cytotoxic T cell (CTL)-mediated response in the neonatal host. CTL play a critical role in controlling viral infections and the ability of the host to develop a CTL response is critical to the outcome of disease. The high morbidity and mortality of newborns infected with viruses is associated with their inability to develop a protective immune response. Therefore studies aimed at inducing a protective and long-lasting immune response in newborns are of high validity and are pursued in this project.
The specific aims are as follows: 1) To analyze the effect of dose of virus on the induction of a Th1-type vs Th2-type response in newborns. 2) To analyze the effect of dose of viral vaccine on the induction of Th1-type vs. Th2-type response in newborns. 3) To determine the life-span and the protective effect of memory CTL activated in newborn mice by viral vaccines. 4) To examine the role of CD4+ T cells and antigen in the maintenance of the CTL memory response.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
First Independent Research Support & Transition (FIRST) Awards (R29)
Project #
5R29CA065388-05
Application #
6172338
Study Section
Experimental Immunology Study Section (EI)
Program Officer
Cole, John S
Project Start
1996-07-01
Project End
2002-06-30
Budget Start
2000-07-01
Budget End
2002-06-30
Support Year
5
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$107,802
Indirect Cost
Name
Duke University
Department
Neurosciences
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
071723621
City
Durham
State
NC
Country
United States
Zip Code
27705