NIH-funded research R01 grant

Developing vaccines to protect against SARS-CoV-2 variants

Official title: Mucosal subunit vaccines against SARS CoV-2

Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11106030 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new type of vaccine that aims to provide long-lasting protection against COVID-19 by boosting your immune response, and it's designed for anyone interested in better ways to fight off the virus and its variants.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project startJune 5, 2024
Project endApril 30, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$745,036
NIH project number5R01AI181270-02
Project IDNIH-11106030 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are at risk of COVID-19 infection.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not at risk for COVID-19 or those who have already been vaccinated with effective vaccines may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating mucosal vaccines that can effectively combat SARS-CoV-2 variants by generating long-lasting immunity. It aims to enhance both cell-mediated and humoral immune responses, which are crucial for protection against respiratory infections. The study explores the use of a novel adjuvant, Bordetella Colonization Factor A (BcfA), which promotes a more effective immune response compared to traditional adjuvants like alum. By targeting the immune system's T follicular helper cells and memory B cells, the research seeks to improve the durability of vaccine-induced protection.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing vaccines with novel adjuvants, indicating potential for success with this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Ohio State University
    Columbus, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Dubey, Purnima — Ohio State University
  • Study coordinator: Dubey, Purnima

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.