Early in vivo expressed antigens and their role in virulence, immune response, and vaccines for coccidioidomycosis
Funded at Northern Arizona University · NIH-11397298 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A research team is exploring how specific disease-related antigens appear in living organisms to better understand Valley Fever and help design effective vaccines.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northern Arizona University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Flagstaff, United States) |
| Project start | August 24, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $513,424 |
| NIH project number | 5U19AI166058-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11397298 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals in or from endemic regions who are at risk of Valley Fever and may participate in future vaccine trials or sample collection studies.
✕Less likely to help
People not affected by Valley Fever or those not connected to vaccine development may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project investigates antigens expressed early during infection and how they influence virulence and immune responses in coccidioidomycosis. It uses animal models to study how these antigens affect disease progression and protection. The goal is to inform the development of safer, effective vaccines using non-live vaccine approaches that mimic infection without risking severe reactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to a safer vaccine strategy against Valley Fever for people in at-risk regions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in animal models have shown that antigen-focused vaccine strategies can provide protection, supporting further development.
Where this research is happening
-
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fuller, Deborah H. — Northern Arizona University
- Study coordinator: Fuller, Deborah H.
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.