Improving vaccines to prevent C. difficile infections.
Official title: Enhancing C. difficile vaccination in the context of TcdB-mediated immunosuppression.
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10892824 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new vaccine to help protect people from Clostridioides difficile infections, which can cause serious stomach problems, by using a safe version of a toxin to boost the immune system, and it will also look at how this bacteria might make vaccines less effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | July 25, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $375,372 |
| NIH project number | 5U19AI174994-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10892824 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for C. difficile infections, such as those with recent antibiotic use or underlying health conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for C. difficile infections or those who have already been vaccinated may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a next-generation vaccine to prevent infections caused by Clostridioides difficile, a bacterium responsible for significant gastrointestinal illness and mortality. The approach involves creating a modified version of a toxin that can stimulate a strong immune response without causing harm. The vaccine candidates will be tested in animal models to assess their effectiveness and safety. Additionally, the study will explore how C. difficile may weaken the immune response to vaccines, which is crucial for developing effective immunization strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective vaccine that significantly reduces the incidence of C. difficile infections and related complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing vaccines against C. difficile, but this approach is innovative and aims to enhance existing strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ballard, Jimmy D. — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Ballard, Jimmy D.
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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.