Developing a universal vaccine for influenza
Official title: Centers for Research on Structural Biology of Infectious Diseases: Universal Influenza
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11160413 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the shapes of certain proteins linked to the flu to help create a better vaccine that could protect you from different strains of the virus, making it easier for everyone to stay healthy during flu season.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $250,000 |
| NIH project number | 75N93022C00035-P00010-9999-1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11160413 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of influenza infection, including those with chronic health conditions, the elderly, and healthcare workers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for influenza or those who have already received a specific influenza vaccine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on using advanced structural biology techniques to understand the three-dimensional structures of proteins related to influenza. By characterizing these proteins, the research aims to contribute to the development of a universal influenza vaccine that could provide broader protection against various strains of the virus. Patients may benefit from this research as it seeks to create a more effective vaccine that could reduce the incidence of influenza and its complications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a universal influenza vaccine that protects against multiple strains of the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using structural biology to inform vaccine development, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Satchell, Karla — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Satchell, Karla
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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.