Developing a universal vaccine to protect against all types of influenza
Official title: Overcome immunodominance to support the development of universal influenza vaccines
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10945128 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new flu vaccine that could help your body fight off not just the flu strains we have now, but also any future ones, by using a special ingredient to boost your immune response for better protection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 28, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $709,236 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI184891-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10945128 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are at high risk for influenza, such as the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for influenza or those who have already received a flu vaccine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a universal influenza vaccine that can effectively trigger immune responses against both current and future strains of the virus. It focuses on overcoming a challenge known as immunodominance, where the immune system favors certain viral components over others. By using a specialized nanoparticle adjuvant that enhances immune signaling, the researchers hope to stimulate a broader and more effective antibody response. This approach could lead to a vaccine that provides long-lasting protection against influenza.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a universal flu vaccine that protects against multiple strains of influenza, reducing the incidence of flu-related illnesses.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing universal vaccines for influenza, but this specific approach using TLR7 nanoparticle adjuvants is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luo, Wei — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Luo, Wei
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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.