A new needle-free device for delivering a universal flu vaccine
Official title: Clinic-Ready MACH-1 Gene Gun for delivery of a universal influenza DNA vaccine
Funded at Orlance, INC. · NIH-10911318 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new flu vaccine that could protect you from both regular flu and new strains, using a special painless device to deliver it, and it’s designed to work with fewer doses than usual.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Orlance, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $990,275 |
| NIH project number | 5R44AI179440-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911318 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals seeking vaccination against influenza, especially those at higher risk for severe illness.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for influenza or those who have contraindications to vaccination may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a universal influenza DNA vaccine that can protect against seasonal flu and emerging variants. The vaccine is designed to induce strong immune responses through a multi-dose regimen, targeting conserved viral sequences common to all influenza strains. A unique needle-free device, the MACH-1 gene gun, will be used to deliver the vaccine painlessly and efficiently, requiring lower doses than traditional methods. The project aims to refine this device for human use as the vaccine approaches clinical trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and convenient flu vaccine that protects against a wider range of influenza strains.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar gene gun delivery methods in animal models, indicating potential for human application.
Where this research is happening
-
Orlance, INC.
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Frizzell, Hannah — Orlance, INC.
- Study coordinator: Frizzell, Hannah
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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.