Improving how antibodies protect against infections
Official title: Increasing the protective capacity of antibodies by enhancing Fc-mediated responses
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11017221 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to make vaccines and treatments work better by boosting the protective power of antibodies, especially for people whose antibodies don’t fight off infections as well as they should, so that everyone can have stronger defenses against germs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | May 5, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $416,276 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187028-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017221 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are at risk of infections that current vaccines do not adequately protect against.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already developed strong immunity from existing vaccines or treatments may not see additional benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the protective abilities of antibodies generated by vaccines and infections. It aims to understand how the Fc portion of antibodies can improve immune responses, particularly in cases where antibodies do not neutralize pathogens effectively. By investigating various factors that influence these Fc-mediated responses, the research seeks to develop better vaccines and antibody therapies that can provide stronger protection against a range of microbial infections. Patients may benefit from improved treatments that utilize both neutralizing and non-neutralizing antibodies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines and antibody therapies that provide better protection against infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in enhancing antibody responses through Fc-mediated mechanisms, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barb, Adam Wesley — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Barb, Adam Wesley
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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.