Developing a new malaria vaccine using virus-like particles
Official title: Virus-like Particle based malaria vaccines targeting vulnerable epitopes in the circumsporozoite protein
Funded at University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr · NIH-10975380 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new malaria vaccine that aims to help young children by making their immune systems stronger against the disease, using a special method to create lasting protection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albuquerque, United States) |
| Project start | November 9, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $592,698 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI169739-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975380 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children under the age of 11, particularly those living in malaria-endemic regions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not children or those who do not reside in malaria-endemic areas may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a more effective malaria vaccine by targeting specific vulnerable sites on the circumsporozoite protein (CSP) of the malaria parasite. The approach involves using a virus-like particle (VLP) platform to enhance the immune response, aiming to produce long-lasting antibodies that can prevent malaria infection. The research will utilize advanced techniques to monitor immune responses and test the vaccine's effectiveness in mouse models. If successful, this could lead to a vaccine that provides better protection against malaria, especially in young children.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective malaria vaccine that provides long-lasting immunity, particularly benefiting young children who are most at risk.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using virus-like particles for vaccine development, indicating a potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
Albuquerque, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chackerian, Bryce C — University of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr
- Study coordinator: Chackerian, Bryce C
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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.