Finding new agents to improve mRNA vaccines

Discovery of Adjuvants for mRNA Vaccines

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11202992

This study is looking for safe, small substances that can help make mRNA vaccines work better by improving how the body responds to them, which could lead to stronger protection against COVID-19 and other diseases for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11202992 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on discovering and optimizing safe, low molecular weight substances that can act as adjuvants to enhance the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines. By improving the accumulation and release of protein antigens in both immune and non-immune cells, the study aims to boost the immune response. The approach involves administering these agents alongside mRNA vaccines and assessing their impact on activating the innate immune system in antigen-presenting cells. Patients may benefit from improved vaccine efficacy against COVID-19 and potentially other diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are receiving or have received mRNA vaccines and are interested in enhancing their immune response.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving mRNA vaccines or those with contraindications to vaccination may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective mRNA vaccines that provide better protection against COVID-19 and other viral infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using adjuvants to enhance vaccine efficacy, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.