Immunomodulatory vaccine to prevent and treat HSV infections
Official title: Preclinical Evaluation of a Novel Immunomodulatory Vaccine for Preventing and Treating HSV Infections
Funded at Rational Vaccines, INC. · NIH-11263748 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new vaccine approach aims to prevent and treat herpes infections by boosting the immune system without entering nerve cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rational Vaccines, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Woburn, United States) |
| Project start | August 3, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $999,160 |
| NIH project number | 5R44AI170133-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11263748 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals at risk for HSV infections or those with existing HSV disease who could participate in future trials after IND submission.
✕Less likely to help
Early-stage preclinical work may not yet translate to patient benefits until clinical trials begin.
What this research studies
This project centers on a novel vaccine designed to help people who may get or already have herpes infections. It uses an immunomodulatory strategy to avoid latency in nerve cells, potentially reducing disease impact. The work includes developing manufacturing processes, establishing product specs, and testing in animal models to support an FDA IND submission.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the vaccine could reduce HSV infections and improve outcomes for people affected by herpes.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical success in animal models and evidence of immune response support progression toward human trials.
Where this research is happening
-
Rational Vaccines, INC.
Woburn, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gershburg, Edward — Rational Vaccines, INC.
- Study coordinator: Gershburg, Edward
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.