Improving vaccine responses in immunosuppressed individuals by targeting specific B cells
Official title: Targeting lipid-oxidizing B cells to enhance vaccine responses during immunosuppression
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10643256 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to improve vaccine responses for people with weakened immune systems, like those who have had organ transplants, by focusing on special B cells and their energy use, so we can create better vaccines just for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $162,000 |
| NIH project number | 1K22AI175398-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10643256 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are immunosuppressed, such as solid organ transplant recipients or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not immunosuppressed or do not have conditions affecting their immune response may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how atypical B cells can be targeted to enhance vaccine responses in individuals with weakened immune systems. The study focuses on understanding the metabolic changes in these B cells that may contribute to better vaccine efficacy. By analyzing the immune responses of immunosuppressed patients, particularly those who have received organ transplants, the research aims to develop tailored vaccine strategies that could improve their immune response. The findings could lead to innovative vaccine formulations specifically designed for immunocompromised populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines for immunosuppressed patients, improving their ability to respond to vaccinations.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary data suggests that targeting atypical B cells has shown promise in improving vaccine responses in similar populations, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thompson, Elizabeth Anne — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Thompson, Elizabeth Anne
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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.