Investigating a new vaccine for patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Immunogenicity of recombinant zoster vaccine in Rheumatoid arthritis patients

NIH-funded research Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center · NIH-10929980

This study is looking at how well a special shingles vaccine works for people with rheumatoid arthritis, who may be more likely to get infections, to see if it can help protect them from shingles and keep them safe.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLouis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10929980 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the effectiveness of a recombinant zoster vaccine in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), who are at a higher risk for infections due to their condition and treatments. The study aims to evaluate how well this vaccine can protect RA patients from herpes zoster, a common infection that can lead to serious complications. By using a subunit vaccine that is safe for immunosuppressed individuals, the research seeks to improve immune responses in these patients. Participants will be monitored for immune responses and any potential side effects.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and are currently receiving immunosuppressive therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have rheumatoid arthritis or those who are not receiving immunosuppressive treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of herpes zoster and its complications in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar vaccine approaches in other immunocompromised populations, indicating potential for success in this study.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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.