Developing a vaccine to prevent meat allergies caused by tick bites
Official title: mRNA vaccination targeting Amblyomma ticks to prevent alpha gal syndrome
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11139076 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new vaccine that could help people with alpha-gal syndrome by making their bodies less likely to react to tick bites, which can cause allergic reactions to red meat.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $251,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI186078-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139076 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced allergic reactions to red meat and have been bitten by Amblyomma americanum ticks.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of tick bites or do not experience alpha-gal syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a vaccine that induces resistance to Amblyomma americanum ticks, which are linked to a condition called alpha-gal syndrome that causes allergic reactions to red meat. The approach involves using mRNA technology to stimulate the immune system to prevent tick bites from triggering allergic responses. By focusing on the immune response to specific proteins in tick saliva, the researchers hope to reduce the production of antibodies that lead to meat allergies. If successful, this vaccine could significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by alpha-gal syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a vaccine that prevents allergic reactions to red meat in individuals sensitized by tick bites.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in inducing tick resistance in animal models, suggesting potential for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Narasimhan, Sukanya — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Narasimhan, Sukanya
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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.