Impact of COVID-19 vaccination on mothers and infants' immunity

Serological and functional impact of COVID-19 vaccination on the maternal fetal unit and infant immunity

NIH-funded research Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-10687147

This study is looking at how COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters, impact the immune systems of pregnant women and their babies, focusing on how antibodies are passed from moms to their little ones through cord blood and breast milk, especially with new variants in mind.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10687147 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how COVID-19 vaccinations, including booster doses, affect the immune responses of pregnant women and their infants. It aims to understand the transmission of antibodies from mothers to infants through cord blood and breast milk, especially in the context of new COVID-19 variants. By profiling maternal immune responses and assessing infant serology, the study seeks to fill knowledge gaps regarding the effectiveness of vaccinations during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Participants will be part of a multi-arm cohort study that evaluates these immunological impacts.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant or breastfeeding women who have received COVID-19 vaccinations or have been exposed to the virus.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or breastfeeding, or those who have not received COVID-19 vaccinations, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance understanding of maternal and infant immunity to COVID-19, potentially leading to improved vaccination strategies for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results regarding maternal immunity and antibody transmission, but this specific focus on booster doses and new variants is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.