Developing a new mRNA vaccine adjuvant for influenza

MRNA VACCINE DEVELOPMENT

NIH-funded research Flag Bio, INC. · NIH-11203921

This study is testing a new way to boost the effectiveness of flu vaccines by using a special ingredient that helps your immune system respond better, so you can get better protection against the flu.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFlag Bio, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (East Aurora, United States)
Project IDNIH-11203921 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating mRNAFlag, a novel vaccine adjuvant designed to enhance the immune response to influenza vaccines. The approach involves using an mRNA transcript that encodes a modified TLR5 agonist, which is expected to improve the effectiveness of the influenza mRNA vaccine. The vaccine will utilize a specific hemagglutinin from the H1N1 virus and will be formulated in a lipid nanoparticle system similar to that used in successful COVID-19 vaccines. Patients may benefit from improved protection against influenza through enhanced vaccine responses.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at higher risk for influenza complications, such as the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for influenza or those who have contraindications to vaccination may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective influenza vaccines, providing better protection for patients during flu seasons.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using mRNA technology for vaccines, particularly with COVID-19, indicating a potential for success in this novel application for influenza.

Where this research is happening

East Aurora, 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.