Developing a new test to evaluate tuberculosis vaccines using guinea pigs

Cross development of surrogate efficacy mycobacterial growth inhibition assay endpoint for the translational guinea pig model

['FUNDING_R03'] · SEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11090335

This study is looking at how well new tuberculosis vaccines work by testing them on guinea pigs, which are similar to humans in how they get the disease, and it uses a special lab test to see how well the immune system can fight off the bacteria, all while using existing blood samples to limit the need for more animal testing.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R03']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11090335 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the evaluation of tuberculosis (TB) vaccines by using guinea pigs, which closely mimic human disease progression. The team aims to adopt a specific laboratory test, known as the mycobacterial growth inhibition assay (MGIA), to assess how well the immune cells from vaccinated guinea pigs can control TB bacteria. By utilizing existing blood samples from previous studies, the research seeks to reduce the need for additional animal testing while enhancing the efficiency of vaccine evaluation. This approach not only aims to provide better insights into vaccine efficacy but also aligns with ethical standards in animal research.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals involved in TB vaccine development or those interested in the efficacy of TB treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who are not involved in TB vaccine research or do not have a vested interest in tuberculosis treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective TB vaccines, ultimately improving treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has successfully utilized similar assays in other animal models, indicating potential for success in this novel application with guinea pigs.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.