Understanding how gut bacteria influence vaccine responses
Official title: Exploiting the microbiota-stromal cell axis for microbiota-targeted medicine
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10951348 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might influence how well vaccines work, especially for babies, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, to find ways to make vaccines more effective for these groups.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $466,500 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2AI184835-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951348 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include infants, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems who may struggle with vaccine efficacy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are healthy adults with robust immune systems may not receive significant benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between gut microbiota and immune responses to vaccines, particularly focusing on vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. It aims to uncover how the composition of gut bacteria affects the effectiveness of vaccines by examining the role of stromal cells in mediating these immune responses. By exploring microbiota-targeted interventions, the research seeks to enhance vaccine efficacy for those who typically have suboptimal responses. The study will utilize various methodologies to analyze the interactions between gut bacteria and immune cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccine responses in vulnerable populations, enhancing public health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of gut microbiota in immune responses, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Meng — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Wu, Meng
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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.