Developing an mRNA vaccine to prevent and treat Clostridioides difficile infections
Official title: Project 1: Neutralizing and decolonizing Clostridioides difficile using mRNA vaccines
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11037952 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new mRNA vaccine designed to help prevent and treat infections from a harmful bacteria called Clostridioides difficile, especially for older adults who are more at risk, by boosting the body's immune response to fight off the infection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $254,993 |
| NIH project number | 5U19AI174998-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037952 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include elderly individuals, those with compromised immune systems, and patients who have recently undergone antibiotic treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for Clostridioides difficile infections or those who do not meet the specific health criteria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating a new mRNA vaccine aimed at preventing and treating infections caused by Clostridioides difficile, a harmful bacterium that can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly. The approach involves using advanced mRNA technology to target specific toxins and proteins produced by the bacteria, enhancing the immune response. By utilizing a combination of innovative vaccine development techniques and extensive research resources, the goal is to improve protection against initial infections and help those already infected to recover more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence and severity of Clostridioides difficile infections, improving health outcomes for at-risk patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in vaccine development for Clostridioides difficile, but this approach using mRNA technology is relatively novel and untested in this specific context.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weissman, Drew — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Weissman, Drew
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.