Developing a vaccine to protect against Shigella infections
Broad spectrum Shigella subunit vaccine based on conserved proteins
This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect kids from Shigella, a germ that causes diarrhea and can make them very sick, by using parts of the germ that can trigger a strong immune response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017834 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a broad-spectrum vaccine to protect against Shigella, a major cause of diarrhea and dysentery, particularly in children. The approach involves using conserved proteins from the Shigella Type III secretion system to stimulate an immune response. By targeting these proteins, the vaccine aims to provide effective protection against various strains of Shigella, which are known to rapidly develop antibiotic resistance. The research includes preliminary data showing promising immune responses in both animal models and humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children aged 2-5 years and adults living in regions where Shigella infections are common.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Shigella infections or those who have already been vaccinated against it may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safe and effective vaccine that significantly reduces the incidence of Shigella infections and their associated complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in developing vaccines targeting specific components of Shigella, but this broad-spectrum approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pasetti, Marcela F — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Pasetti, Marcela F
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.