Improving vaccine responses in older adults using a new adjuvant combination

Restoring age-dependent vaccine unresponsiveness by a novel ASP-1 adjuvant combination

NIH-funded research New York Blood Center · NIH-11088844

This study is looking at a new way to make vaccines work better for older adults by using a special ingredient that helps boost their immune response, so they can be better protected against infections.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York Blood Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088844 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a novel combination of adjuvants can enhance vaccine effectiveness in older adults, who often experience reduced immune responses due to aging. The study focuses on a unique parasite protein adjuvant, rASP-1, and its interaction with well-known innate adjuvants to stimulate a stronger immune response. By understanding the mechanisms behind these interactions, the research aims to develop more effective vaccines tailored for the aging population, potentially leading to better protection against infectious diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older, particularly those who may have weakened immune responses due to age.

Not a fit: Patients under 21 years old or those with immune system disorders unrelated to aging may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to vaccines that are significantly more effective for older adults, reducing their risk of serious infections.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using adjuvant combinations to enhance vaccine responses, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.