Developing a universal influenza vaccine to improve immunity
Official title: Synthetic multi-component influenza vaccines to elicit broad immunity
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11002304 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new flu vaccine that aims to protect people, especially older adults and those with weakened immune systems, from different strains of the virus by using a mix of ingredients to boost their immune response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | December 19, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $660,492 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI158743-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002304 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include elderly individuals, infants, and those with compromised immune systems who are at higher risk for influenza complications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for influenza complications or those who have already received effective seasonal vaccines may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a universal influenza vaccine that can provide better protection against various strains of the virus, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. The approach involves synthesizing a vaccine that combines multiple components, including specific immune targets and an adjuvant to enhance the immune response. By focusing on broadly cross-reactive elements, the goal is to elicit strong immune responses that can protect against diverse influenza A virus infections. The research builds on previous findings that demonstrated the effectiveness of multi-component vaccines in animal models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective influenza vaccine that offers broader protection and reduces the disease burden associated with seasonal and pandemic influenza.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing multi-component vaccines, indicating that this approach could be a viable strategy for improving influenza vaccination.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boons, Geert-Jan — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Boons, Geert-Jan
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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.