New mRNA vaccines and antibody therapies to prevent and treat pertussis
Official title: Development of therapies against pertussis
Funded at West Virginia University · NIH-11572332 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A program to create and test new mRNA vaccines and antibody therapies to stop whooping cough from spreading and causing illness in people of all ages.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | West Virginia University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Morgantown, United States) |
| Project start | January 21, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $765,537 |
| NIH project number | 2R56AI153250-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11572332 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals at risk for pertussis exposure or infants and adults who could benefit from new preventive or therapeutic strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Populations with no exposure risk or those unable to participate in vaccine studies may see limited or no direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project uses an mRNA platform to develop vaccines with multiple bacterial targets against Bordetella pertussis, tested first in animal models and then evaluated for transmission-blocking potential. We will compare formulations with different antigens and genetic adjuvants to identify the most effective combination. A natural transmission baboon model will be used to better simulate how pertussis spreads among people, guiding which vaccines might block spread and protect vulnerable groups like infants.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to vaccines and antibody therapies that reduce pertussis transmission and disease, protecting infants and other at-risk populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous pertussis vaccine work with mRNA platforms and transmission models has shown promise, but human data are needed.
Where this research is happening
-
West Virginia University
Morgantown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Damron, Fredrick Heath — West Virginia University
- Study coordinator: Damron, Fredrick Heath
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.