Developing targeted vaccines for COVID-19 variants

SARS-CoV-2 vaccines based on RBDs with engineered glycosylation sites

['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · EMMUNE, INC · NIH-10909385

This study is testing a new type of booster vaccine designed to help people who have already been vaccinated against COVID-19 by making it better at fighting off different variants of the virus.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_2']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorEMMUNE, INC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Juno Beach, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10909385 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating vaccine antigens specifically targeting the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to enhance the immune response. By engineering glycosylation sites into the RBD, the researchers aim to improve the vaccine's effectiveness and reduce unwanted immune responses. The project will test these RBD-based antigens using lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-mRNA technology, comparing their ability to generate neutralizing antibodies against various COVID-19 variants. This innovative approach seeks to provide a more effective booster vaccine for individuals who have already received initial COVID-19 vaccinations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have received initial COVID-19 vaccinations and are seeking booster options.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines that provide stronger protection against COVID-19 variants.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using targeted approaches for vaccine development, indicating potential success for this novel strategy.

Where this research is happening

Juno Beach, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.