Finding new ways to enhance vaccine effectiveness and safety for influenza and tuberculosis.
Official title: Discovery of Adjuvants that Direct T-cell Fates for Improved Safety and Efficacy in Vaccines Against Influenza and Tuberculosis
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11202993 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to make vaccines for flu and tuberculosis work better by boosting the immune system, which could help people get stronger protection against these illnesses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,989,733 |
| NIH project number | 75N93024C00023-0-9999-1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11202993 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk for influenza or tuberculosis infections and may benefit from improved vaccination strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for influenza or tuberculosis or those who have already received effective vaccinations may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on discovering new adjuvants that can improve the immune response to vaccines, specifically targeting influenza and tuberculosis. By screening novel immune-boosting agents, the researchers aim to direct T cell fates and enhance the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines. The approach involves modifying the innate immune response to create safer and more effective vaccine responses while also improving antibody levels. Patients may benefit from more effective vaccines that provide better protection against these diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to vaccines that are safer and more effective against influenza and tuberculosis.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in enhancing vaccine responses through novel adjuvants, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Esser-Kahn, Aaron — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Esser-Kahn, Aaron
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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.