Developing a vaccine to protect against plague caused by Yersinia pestis

Targeting T3SA proteins as protective antigens against Yersinia

NIH-funded research University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-10767991

This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect against the plague by using a method that delivers the vaccine through the nose, making it easier to get vaccinated, and it’s being tested in animals to see how well it works.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10767991 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating protective antigens targeting T3SA proteins from the Yersinia pestis bacterium, which causes plague. By understanding how these proteins interact with host cells, the research aims to develop a vaccine that can effectively stimulate the immune system to fight off infections. The approach involves using intranasal drug administration to deliver the vaccine, which could provide a non-invasive method for immunization. The study will utilize animal models to evaluate the effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing plague.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals living in or traveling to areas where plague is endemic or at risk of outbreaks.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of exposure to Yersinia pestis or those with existing immunity to the bacterium may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new vaccine that significantly reduces the risk of plague infections in humans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing vaccines targeting similar bacterial pathogens, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.