Creating a 3D model of human lymph nodes to test vaccine effectiveness against infections
Official title: Development of a Human Lymph node-on a Chip Microphysiological System for Evaluation of Vaccine Effectiveness against Infectious Diseases
Funded at New York University · NIH-11143409 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a special 3D model that acts like human lymph nodes to see how well vaccines boost our immune system, helping researchers find better ways to protect us from infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | June 17, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $437,477 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI187758-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143409 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of infectious diseases and may benefit from improved vaccine strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for infectious diseases or those who have already received effective vaccines may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a microphysiological system that mimics human lymph nodes in a 3D environment to evaluate how well vaccines work in enhancing the body's immune response. By using this innovative model, researchers hope to overcome the limitations of current animal models that often fail to accurately predict human immune responses. The project focuses on understanding how vaccines activate T cells and B cells, which are crucial for long-term immunity. This approach could lead to more effective vaccines and better prevention of infectious diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective vaccines that provide better protection against infectious diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using 3D models for studying immune responses, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Weiqiang — New York University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Weiqiang
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.