Developing a vaccine for Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever Vaccine Development
This study is working on a vaccine to help prevent Rocky Mountain spotted fever in both people and dogs, so we can keep everyone safe from this tick-borne illness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10675538 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a vaccine to prevent Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), a serious tick-borne illness caused by Rickettsia rickettsii. The project involves collaboration among experts to develop effective immunization strategies, particularly targeting both humans and dogs, as dogs can contract the disease similarly to humans. The researchers are testing different vaccine formulations, including subunit vaccines and whole cell inactivated antigens, to determine the most effective approach. By preventing RMSF in dogs, the research aims to reduce the risk of transmission to humans and control the spread of the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals living in areas where RMSF is prevalent, particularly those who own dogs.
Not a fit: Patients who do not live in regions affected by Rocky Mountain spotted fever or who do not have exposure to ticks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in both dogs and humans.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing vaccines for tick-borne diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ganta, Roman R. — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Ganta, Roman R.
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 below.