Creating vaccines for influenza and HIV-1 that can provide broad protection
Flipped Germinal Centers
This study is working on creating vaccines for the flu and HIV that can protect against many different strains, and it's for anyone interested in better ways to fight these viruses by improving how our immune system makes strong antibodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900754 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing universal vaccines for influenza and HIV-1, aiming to overcome the challenge of immune responses that are often limited to specific strains. It investigates how antibodies mature in germinal centers and how a prime and boost vaccination strategy can be optimized to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). By designing viral envelope variants that effectively bind to precursor antibodies, the research seeks to enhance the maturation process of these protective antibodies. The methodology involves generating and testing various viral envelope mutations to identify the most effective immunogens for vaccination.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for influenza and HIV-1, particularly those who may benefit from enhanced vaccine responses.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for influenza or HIV-1 or those who have already developed effective immunity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of vaccines that provide broad and long-lasting protection against influenza and HIV-1.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing broadly neutralizing antibodies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wesemann, Duane R. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Wesemann, Duane R.
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.