Developing a new oral vaccine adjuvant using saponins
Official title: DEVELOPMENT OF SAPONIN DMLT ADJUVANT (SDA)
Funded at Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-11127340 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new ingredient called saponin dmLT adjuvant (SDA) that could make oral vaccines for diseases like ETEC and polio work better, so people can have stronger protection and find it easier to take their vaccines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Orleans, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | September 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,598,870 |
| NIH project number | 75N93023C00045-P00001-9999-1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11127340 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals who are at risk for bacterial enteric infections or polio, particularly in regions where these diseases are prevalent.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for the targeted infections or those who have already been vaccinated against them may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a new type of adjuvant called saponin dmLT adjuvant (SDA) that can be used in oral vaccines. The team will investigate how this adjuvant can enhance the immune response when combined with vaccines for diseases like ETEC and polio. By optimizing the formulation for gastrointestinal delivery, they aim to improve vaccine effectiveness and patient compliance. The project will involve various stages of testing, including safety and stability assessments, to ensure the new adjuvant is ready for clinical use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective oral vaccines that are easier for patients to receive and could improve immunity against serious infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success with similar adjuvant approaches, particularly in injectable vaccines, but this oral delivery method is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Norton, Elizabeth — Tulane University of Louisiana
- Study coordinator: Norton, Elizabeth
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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.