Investigating immune responses to COVID-19 vaccination in children with multiple sclerosis on immunotherapy
Serological and cellular immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in pediatric multiple sclerosis on immunotherapy
This study is looking at how different treatments for multiple sclerosis affect how well kids respond to COVID-19 vaccines, so we can better understand how to protect them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124247 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how different immunotherapies affect the immune response to COVID-19 vaccination in children with multiple sclerosis. It aims to compare the antibody and cellular immune responses in pediatric patients receiving either anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies or sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulators. By utilizing advanced technology, the study will measure various types of antibodies and their effectiveness against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The findings could provide insights into optimizing vaccination strategies for this vulnerable population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who are receiving immunotherapy.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have multiple sclerosis or are not undergoing immunotherapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccination strategies that enhance protection against COVID-19 for children with multiple sclerosis.
How similar studies have performed: While there is substantial research on adult patients with multiple sclerosis, this investigation into pediatric patients represents a novel approach with limited prior studies.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gombolay, Grace Yoonheekim — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Gombolay, Grace Yoonheekim
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 below.