A new rotavirus vaccine using a safe probiotic

Novel recombinant Rotavirus vaccine utilizing the probiotic microorganism Lactobacillus acidophilus

NIH-funded research Colorado State University · NIH-10747295

This study is testing a new rotavirus vaccine made from a friendly probiotic called Lactobacillus acidophilus, designed to give better protection to young children under five in developing countries, and it will be easy to take and store without needing refrigeration.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColorado State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Fort Collins, United States)
Project IDNIH-10747295 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel rotavirus vaccine that utilizes the probiotic microorganism Lactobacillus acidophilus. The vaccine aims to provide better protection against rotavirus, particularly for children under five years old in developing countries, where existing vaccines have lower efficacy. The approach involves creating an orally-delivered vaccine that is safe, cost-effective, and does not require cold storage. The researchers will use advanced techniques, including CRISPR-Cas9, to enhance the vaccine's effectiveness and assess its ability to induce strong immune responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of five, especially those living in developing countries where rotavirus is a major health concern.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than five years or those living in developed countries may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of severe rotavirus disease and related deaths in young children, particularly in developing nations.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing vaccines using probiotics, but this specific approach utilizing Lactobacillus acidophilus is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Fort Collins, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.