Understanding how influenza antibodies interact with the virus
Official title: Project 4: Structural Biology of Influenza Antibody-Antigen Interactions
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11290944 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how antibodies connect with the flu virus to help scientists create better vaccines and treatments, which could lead to more effective ways to protect you from the flu.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $325,579 |
| NIH project number | 5P01AI089618-13 |
| Project ID | NIH-11290944 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit would include individuals at high risk for influenza complications, such as young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for influenza or who have already been vaccinated may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structural biology of how antibodies bind to influenza virus antigens. By analyzing these interactions at a molecular level, the study aims to uncover critical insights that could inform vaccine development and therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from advancements in influenza treatments and vaccines that are more effective and targeted. The research employs advanced techniques in structural biology to visualize and understand these interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective influenza vaccines and treatments for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in structural biology has successfully led to breakthroughs in vaccine development for other viruses, suggesting a promising potential for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrison, Stephen Coplan — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Harrison, Stephen Coplan
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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.