Creating a vaccine to protect against Staphylococcus aureus infections

Development of human adaptive immunity to Staphylococcus aureus

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11042701

This study is looking at how babies and kids' immune systems fight off a tough bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause serious infections, to help create a vaccine that could protect everyone from it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042701 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the human immune system responds to Staphylococcus aureus, a dangerous antibiotic-resistant bacteria. By studying the immune responses in infants and children, the researchers aim to identify key factors that could lead to the development of a universal vaccine. The project will analyze how the bacteria's virulence factors affect the immune response, with the goal of creating a vaccine that effectively protects against this pathogen. This work is crucial as S. aureus is a leading cause of severe infections and hospital-related illnesses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include infants and young children, as well as adults who are at risk for S. aureus infections.

Not a fit: Patients with existing severe S. aureus infections may not benefit directly from this research during the study period.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a vaccine that significantly reduces the incidence of Staphylococcus aureus infections, improving health outcomes for patients of all ages.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing vaccines targeting other bacterial pathogens, but this specific approach to S. aureus is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.