Enhancing immunity from HCMV vaccines by targeting viral receptors

Improving HCMV vaccine-elicited immunity by targeting viral Fc receptors

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10997436

This study is looking at ways to make vaccines better at protecting babies from hearing loss and other problems caused by a virus called cytomegalovirus (HCMV), by understanding how the virus affects the immune system, so that we can create a stronger vaccine to keep mothers and their babies safe.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997436 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the effectiveness of vaccines against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), which is a leading cause of hearing loss and neurodevelopmental issues in infants. The team aims to understand how certain viral proteins, known as Fcγ receptors, interfere with the immune response to HCMV. By studying immune responses in individuals infected with HCMV and testing new vaccine strategies in animal models, the researchers hope to develop a more effective vaccine that can prevent the transmission of HCMV from mother to child.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women and their infants, particularly those at risk of HCMV infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or who do not have a risk of HCMV infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective vaccine that protects infants from HCMV-related complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting viral immune evasion mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.