A new vaccine to improve protection against tuberculosis
Official title: A novel hyper-immunogenic low virulent BCG vaccine against tuberculosis
Funded at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso · NIH-11012848 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new version of the BCG vaccine for tuberculosis that has been changed to help your immune system fight TB better, which could mean stronger protection for both kids and adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (El Paso, United States) |
| Project start | February 3, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $458,789 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI175837-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012848 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages, particularly those at higher risk for tuberculosis, such as children and adults in endemic areas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already immunocompromised or have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the existing BCG vaccine for tuberculosis (TB) by genetically modifying it to improve its effectiveness. The approach involves deleting specific genes in the BCG strain that help it evade the immune system, which may lead to a stronger immune response against TB. By creating a triple knockout BCG strain, the researchers aim to enhance the vaccine's ability to present antigens to immune cells, potentially leading to better protection against both childhood and adult forms of TB. Patients may benefit from improved vaccination options that provide stronger immunity against TB.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective vaccine against tuberculosis, reducing the incidence and severity of the disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing vaccine efficacy through genetic modifications, suggesting that this approach could be successful.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso
El Paso, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dhandayuthapani, Subramanian — Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center at El Paso
- Study coordinator: Dhandayuthapani, Subramanian
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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.