Improving a vaccine delivery system for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Official title: Optimization of a Self-Adjuvanting Particle System for Delivering Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prefusion Protein
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10774328 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to deliver a vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) through the nose using tiny, safe particles that help boost the immune response, with the hope of giving infants better and longer-lasting protection against this serious virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | February 2, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $177,591 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI171241-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10774328 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include infants and young children, particularly those under six months old who are at high risk for severe RSV disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 21 years or those who have already been vaccinated against RSV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new vaccine delivery system for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that can be administered intranasally. The approach utilizes biodegradable nanoparticles that not only carry the vaccine but also enhance the immune response. By optimizing this delivery method, the goal is to provide longer-lasting protection for infants against RSV, which is particularly dangerous in the first months of life. The research aims to improve the effectiveness of the vaccine and reduce hospitalizations related to RSV infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective RSV vaccine that protects infants for a longer duration, ultimately reducing hospital visits and improving health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using nanoparticle systems for vaccine delivery, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Empey, Kerry Mcgarr — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Empey, Kerry Mcgarr
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.