A new RNA vaccine for Dengue and Zika
Development of a Replicon RNA-based Vaccine against Dengue and Zika
This project aims to create a safer and more effective vaccine to protect people from both Dengue and Zika viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | La Jolla Institute for Immunology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086739 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Current vaccines for Dengue and Zika can sometimes lead to a problem called antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), where a weak immune response can actually make future infections worse. Our team is working on a new type of RNA vaccine designed to avoid this issue by triggering both strong antibody and T-cell responses. We believe that a balanced immune response will offer better protection and prevent the negative effects seen with some existing vaccines. This approach builds on our previous findings that T-cells can provide broad protection and prevent ADE.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is for anyone who might be at risk of Dengue or Zika virus infections, including both children and adults.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Dengue or Zika virus infections would not directly benefit from this vaccine development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this vaccine could provide safe and strong protection against all types of Dengue and Zika viruses, preventing severe illness.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from our team has shown that an RNA replicon-based vaccine can elicit T-cell responses and confer protection, suggesting promise for this approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shresta, Sujan — La Jolla Institute for Immunology
- Study coordinator: Shresta, Sujan
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 below.