Creating a new inhalable COVID-19 vaccine that doesn't need refrigeration
Official title: Design and development of a novel, thermostable, and inhalable dry powder COVID-19 vaccine
Funded at St. John's University · NIH-10794969 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new inhalable COVID-19 vaccine that doesn't need to be kept cold, making it easier to give to people, especially in hard-to-reach places or during emergencies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. John's University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Queens, United States) |
| Project start | April 20, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $164,000 |
| NIH project number | 5SC2GM144157-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10794969 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19, such as those with co-morbidities like diabetes or hypertension.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for COVID-19 or those who have already been vaccinated with existing vaccines may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel COVID-19 vaccine that can be inhaled and does not require refrigeration, making it easier to distribute and administer. The vaccine utilizes liposomes to deliver the spike protein of the virus, which is crucial for generating an immune response. By mimicking the virus's natural presentation, the vaccine aims to enhance the body's ability to fight off COVID-19. This approach is particularly important for reaching populations in remote areas or during emergencies when traditional vaccines may not be viable.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more accessible and effective way to vaccinate against COVID-19, especially in underserved communities.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been successful developments in traditional COVID-19 vaccines, this inhalable and thermostable approach is relatively novel and has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
St. John's University
Queens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kunda, Nitesh K — St. John's University
- Study coordinator: Kunda, Nitesh K
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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.