Developing mRNA vaccines to protect against tick-borne viruses
Official title: mRNA-Based Vaccines Against Tick Borne Thogotoviruses
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11139160 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new mRNA vaccine designed to protect against the Bourbon virus, which is spread by ticks, and aims to find the best way to help people stay safe from various tick-borne diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $207,262 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI185820-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139160 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where tick-borne diseases are prevalent or those who are at high risk of tick exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in tick-endemic areas or who are not at risk of tick exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating an mRNA vaccine specifically targeting the Bourbon virus, a tick-borne pathogen that poses significant health risks to humans. The approach involves testing the vaccine's effectiveness in a mouse model to understand how it works and to identify the best viral antigens for broader protection against various tick-borne viruses. By evaluating different combinations of antigens, the research aims to lay the groundwork for a universal vaccine that could protect against multiple tick-borne diseases. This innovative strategy addresses the growing threat of tick-borne illnesses exacerbated by climate change and other factors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective vaccines that significantly reduce the incidence of tick-borne diseases in humans.
How similar studies have gone: While mRNA vaccines have shown success in other viral diseases, this specific approach targeting tick-borne pathogens is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boon, Adrianus Cm — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Boon, Adrianus Cm
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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.