Developing a vaccine to combat parasitic diseases using mRNA technology
Official title: Targeting Conserved Molecular and Structural Features of Apicomplexans Towards a Rational Vaccine Design
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-11000339 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect people from infections caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, using a special technology to boost the immune system's ability to recognize and fight off these infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | December 12, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $237,569 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI176186-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000339 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of parasitic infections, particularly those exposed to Toxoplasma gondii.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk of parasitic infections or those who have already been vaccinated against these diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a vaccine to prevent infections from parasitic diseases, particularly those caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. The approach involves understanding how a specific protein structure, known as the GPI anchor, influences the immune response. By utilizing mRNA technology, the researchers aim to deliver important parasite proteins to the immune system more effectively, which could enhance the body's ability to recognize and fight off these infections. The study seeks to identify conserved antigens that can be targeted for vaccine development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines that significantly reduce the incidence of parasitic infections.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using mRNA technology for vaccine development, indicating that this approach could be effective for targeting parasitic diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jensen, Kirk David Christian — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Jensen, Kirk David Christian
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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.