NIH-funded research R21 grant

Understanding how antibodies can protect against Brucella infections

Official title: Antibody Mediated Immunity Against Brucella

Funded at University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-10950094 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how our immune system responds to a germ called Brucella, which can cause long-lasting infections, and it aims to find ways to make vaccines better at protecting us from this infection by understanding how they work in our bodies.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri-Columbia
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project startJuly 25, 2024
Project endJune 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$193,930
NIH project number1R21AI185488-01
Project IDNIH-10950094 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of brucellosis, particularly those in contact with livestock or in regions where the disease is prevalent.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not at risk for brucellosis or those who have already been vaccinated against it may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the immune response to Brucella, a bacterium that can cause lifelong infections in humans and animals. It aims to understand how antibodies produced by vaccines can alter the metabolism of host tissues to provide protection against this infection. The study will explore the mechanisms by which Brucella evades the immune system and how current vaccines can be improved to enhance their effectiveness. By identifying these processes, the research seeks to contribute to the development of better vaccines for preventing brucellosis.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective vaccines to prevent brucellosis in humans and animals.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding antibody responses to infectious diseases, but this specific approach to Brucella immunity is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Missouri-Columbia
    Columbia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Ateya, Mostafa F — University of Missouri-Columbia
  • Study coordinator: Ateya, Mostafa F

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.