DNA-built particles that display virus proteins to strengthen vaccine responses
Investigation of Synthetic DNA-based Viral Particles for Spatially Controlled Antigen Presentation
['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · NIH-11297872
This project tests whether tiny, DNA-made particles that show pieces of HIV or flu viruses can help the immune system make stronger, longer-lasting protective antibodies for people at risk of these infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11297872 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From my point of view, researchers are building virus-like particles out of DNA that can hold many copies of a viral protein in a precise arrangement. They compare these DNA-based particles to traditional protein-based particles to see which better focuses the immune response on the virus parts we want. Work so far is done in the lab and in preclinical models to measure antibody responses and to check safety. The goal is to guide the design of future vaccines that could be tested in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people at risk for HIV or influenza or volunteers willing to join future vaccine trials or provide blood samples for related research.
Not a fit: People seeking an immediate treatment or cure should not expect direct personal benefit now, because this work is mainly preclinical and aimed at informing future vaccines.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If this approach works, it could lead to vaccines that produce stronger and more focused antibody protection against HIV and influenza.
How similar studies have performed: Protein-based nanoparticle and virus-like particle vaccines have shown success in producing protective antibodies, while DNA-built VLPs are a newer approach with promising laboratory results but limited human data so far.
Where this research is happening
CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES
- MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY — CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BATHE, MARK — MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
- Study coordinator: BATHE, MARK
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus