NIH-funded research R01 grant

A vaccine to prevent infections from Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Official title: A prophylactic vaccine to prevent colonization by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Funded at University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-11000312 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect people, especially those with cystic fibrosis or older adults, from infections caused by a tough germ called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can make them very sick.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri-Columbia
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project startDecember 27, 2022
Project endNovember 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$772,498
NIH project number5R01AI169781-03
Project IDNIH-11000312 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include older adults and patients with conditions like cystic fibrosis or severe wounds who are at high risk for infections.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not at risk for Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections or those who are younger and healthy may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a vaccine aimed at preventing infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that can lead to severe health complications, especially in vulnerable populations. The approach involves targeting the bacteria's virulence factors, specifically a type III secretion system that helps it evade the immune system. By creating a vaccine, the researchers hope to reduce the incidence of infections in patients who are at high risk, such as those with cystic fibrosis or advanced age. The study will involve laboratory testing and clinical trials to evaluate the vaccine's effectiveness and safety.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of severe infections in patients vulnerable to Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

How similar studies have gone: While there are ongoing efforts to develop vaccines against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, this specific approach targeting its virulence factors is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Missouri-Columbia
    Columbia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Picking, Wendy L. — University of Missouri-Columbia
  • Study coordinator: Picking, Wendy L.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.