Enhancing vaccines for certain bacterial infections in children and the elderly

Improving vaccination against type-2 T-independent antigens

NIH-funded research Rosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci · NIH-10993143

This study is looking for better ways to help kids and older adults fight off serious infections caused by certain bacteria by figuring out how to boost their immune response and improve vaccines.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRosalind Franklin Univ of Medicine & Sci NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (North Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10993143 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving vaccination strategies against encapsulated bacteria that cause severe infections in children and the elderly. It investigates the mechanisms that inhibit the immune system's memory response to these bacteria and explores how to enhance the production of antibodies and memory B cells through the use of specific adjuvants. By utilizing a mouse model, the study aims to identify ways to overcome the limitations of current vaccines, particularly for T-independent antigens. The findings could lead to more effective vaccines that provide better protection against these infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children under 11 years old and elderly individuals who are at higher risk for infections caused by encapsulated bacteria.

Not a fit: Patients who do not fall within the age range of 0-11 years or those who are not elderly may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccines that offer better protection against serious bacterial infections in vulnerable populations.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach to enhancing vaccines for T-independent antigens is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in improving vaccine efficacy through better understanding of immune responses.

Where this research is happening

North Chicago, 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.
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.