Shelf-stable universal flu vaccine to protect against many strains
Official title: Development of a shelf-stable universal mucosal HA-vaccine for the prevention of influenza
Funded at Via Therapeutics, LLC · NIH-11406923 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new shelf-stable, dry-powder flu vaccine is being developed to provide broad protection and easier distribution, especially where cold storage is limited.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Via Therapeutics, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | July 3, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $971,316 |
| NIH project number | 5R44AI174337-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11406923 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults at risk for influenza exposure or those in areas with limited cold-chain infrastructure who would benefit from a room-temperature vaccine.
✕Less likely to help
Some individuals may not respond or may have contraindications to vaccines, and the program may progress through stages before widespread patient benefit is realized.
What this research studies
This grant supports developing a universal influenza vaccine that can be stored at room temperature and delivered easily as a dry powder. It uses a thin-film freeze process to create a stable product that preserves immune-boosting properties. If successful in humans, it could offer protection against both known and new flu strains and reduce the need for cold-chain logistics. The project builds on prior work in mice and ferrets to demonstrate safety and immune response, with plans for clinical testing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could receive a broadly protective flu vaccine that is easier to store and transport, potentially reducing flu illness and its complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous animal studies showed promising immune responses; human data are needed to confirm effectiveness and safety.
Where this research is happening
-
Via Therapeutics, LLC
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davenport, Gregory — Via Therapeutics, LLC
- Study coordinator: Davenport, Gregory
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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.