Exploring how skin bacteria can improve immune responses

Probing and engineering the B cell response to the skin microbiota

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10985772

This study is looking at how the good bacteria on our skin can help boost our immune system to fight infections better, with the goal of creating easier-to-use vaccines that could help people stay healthy without needing regular shots.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10985772 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the bacteria that naturally live on our skin can enhance the immune system's ability to respond to infections. By understanding the relationship between these bacteria and our immune cells, particularly B cells, the project aims to develop a new type of vaccine that works effectively at the site of infection. This approach could lead to vaccines that are easier to distribute and use, especially in areas with limited resources. Patients may benefit from improved immunity against infections without the need for traditional injections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are interested in improving their immune response to infections, particularly those who may benefit from mucosal vaccines.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by bacterial infections or do not have a need for enhanced mucosal immunity may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines that provide better protection against infections at mucosal surfaces.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using microbiota to enhance immune responses, suggesting that this approach could be a viable and innovative strategy.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 2026-06-09 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.