Identifying key immune targets for vaccines against insect-borne viruses
Official title: Functional B-cell Epitope Discovery for Arthropod-Borne Diseases
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11196675 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at parts of viruses that help our immune system fight them off, especially focusing on how certain pieces can spark strong responses from protective antibodies, with the hope of creating better vaccines and treatments for diseases spread by bugs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2024 |
| Project end | September 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,794,234 |
| NIH project number | 75N93024C00070-0-9999-1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11196675 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals at risk of infections from arthropod-borne viruses, such as those living in endemic areas.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for arthropod-borne diseases or those who have already been vaccinated against these viruses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to identify specific parts of viruses that trigger strong immune responses, particularly focusing on B cell epitopes recognized by protective antibodies. By studying these immune responses in mouse models, the researchers hope to establish connections between these viral components and the effectiveness of neutralizing antibodies. The ultimate goal is to pave the way for developing safe and effective vaccines and treatments for diseases caused by arthropod-borne viruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new vaccines and therapies that protect against serious infections from insect-borne viruses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying immune targets for vaccine development against similar viral infections, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
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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.