Improving the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines with new adjuvant strategies

Combined adjuvant approaches for enhancement of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine efficacy

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11109391

This study is working on making COVID-19 vaccines even better by using special ingredients that help boost your immune system, especially for older adults, so they can have stronger and longer-lasting protection against the virus and its new variants.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11109391 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines by developing a combination of adjuvants that stimulate the immune system more effectively. The approach aims to create a vaccine that not only provides long-lasting protection but also adapts to emerging variants of the virus. By targeting key pathways in the immune response, the study seeks to ensure that the vaccine is particularly effective for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly. Patients may benefit from a more robust and durable immune response against COVID-19.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes, including the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.

Not a fit: Patients who have already received a COVID-19 vaccine that provides adequate protection may not see additional benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to vaccines that offer stronger and longer-lasting protection against COVID-19, especially for high-risk groups.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that innovative adjuvant strategies can significantly enhance vaccine responses, suggesting a promising avenue for improving COVID-19 vaccine efficacy.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.