Exploring a new malaria vaccine using specially treated mice
Official title: Investigating Plasmodium vaccination in 'dirty' mice
Funded at Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute · NIH-11057362 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how well a malaria vaccine works by using special mice that react like humans do, and it aims to find ways to boost the vaccine's effectiveness, especially for people living in areas where malaria is common.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | November 13, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $205,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI182639-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057362 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in malaria-endemic regions who are at risk of malaria infection.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in malaria-endemic areas or those who have already been vaccinated against malaria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of a malaria vaccine by using a unique mouse model that closely mimics human immune responses. The study aims to understand how exposure to various pathogens and microbiota influences the immune response to the Plasmodium vaccine. By testing an adjuvant to enhance immunity, the researchers hope to improve vaccine efficacy, particularly in areas where malaria is endemic. The approach involves using genetically modified parasites to elicit a strong immune response, which could lead to better protection against malaria.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of a more effective malaria vaccine, significantly reducing malaria cases and deaths worldwide.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using genetically attenuated parasites for malaria vaccination, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burrack, Kristina Stoermer — Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Burrack, Kristina Stoermer
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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.