Creating a new tuberculosis vaccine that is safer and more effective than the current one.
Development of a novel TB vaccine safer and more effective than BCG based on a precisely controlled replication-limited Mycobacterium tuberculosis engineered for optimal in vivo growth and clearance
This study is testing a new TB vaccine that aims to be safer and more effective than the current one, especially for older adults, by using a modified version of the bacteria that helps boost your immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11045075 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new vaccine for tuberculosis (TB) that is designed to be both safer and more effective than the existing BCG vaccine. The approach involves engineering a modified strain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that can replicate in a controlled manner within the body, which is expected to enhance the immune response. By allowing the vaccine to grow briefly before being cleared from the body, the researchers aim to stimulate a stronger and longer-lasting immunity against TB. This innovative strategy seeks to address the limitations of the current vaccine, particularly in older populations.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals of all ages, particularly adolescents and adults who are at higher risk for tuberculosis.
Not a fit: Patients who are already immunocompromised or have active tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective vaccine that significantly reduces the incidence of tuberculosis, especially in adolescents and adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing modified vaccines for TB, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Horwitz, Marcus Aaron — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Horwitz, Marcus Aaron
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 below.