A new vaccine approach to enhance immune responses against COVID-19
Official title: A Phase 1/2a, randomized study of a Tfh-targeting genetic vaccine adjuvant designed to induce broad, durable immune responses
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11085057 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new vaccine that aims to boost your immune response to COVID-19 by helping your body create stronger and longer-lasting protection, and it's looking for people to try it out.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | May 7, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,417,453 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AI172800-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085057 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include healthy adults who have not been previously infected with COVID-19.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines or those currently infected with COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel vaccine adjuvant designed to improve the immune response to COVID-19 by targeting T follicular helper cells. The approach aims to generate long-lasting and broad antibody responses, which are crucial for effective protection against the virus. By using a specific antibody fragment fused with an immunogen, the study seeks to enhance the development of B cells and Tfh cells, potentially leading to more durable immunity. Participants may receive this innovative vaccine to assess its effectiveness in generating a robust immune response.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective and long-lasting vaccine against COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in enhancing immune responses through innovative vaccine strategies, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chew, Kara W — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Chew, Kara W
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.