Understanding how kidney transplant patients respond to COVID-19 vaccination while on specific immunosuppressive therapy

Systems analyses of induction and maintenance of immunity to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in kidney transplant recipients receiving mycophenolate mofetil immunotherapy

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11046505

This study is looking at how kidney transplant patients taking a medication called mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) respond to COVID-19 vaccines, and whether stopping this medication before getting vaccinated could help them build a stronger immune response and better protect them against the virus.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11046505 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how kidney transplant recipients who are on mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) immunotherapy respond to COVID-19 vaccinations. It aims to understand the immune responses these patients develop after vaccination, particularly focusing on the effects of MMF on their ability to produce antibodies and maintain immunity. The study will explore whether stopping MMF before vaccination can enhance their immune response, potentially leading to better protection against COVID-19. By analyzing both innate and adaptive immune responses, the research seeks to improve vaccination strategies for this vulnerable population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are kidney transplant recipients currently receiving mycophenolate mofetil as part of their immunosuppressive therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not kidney transplant recipients or those not on mycophenolate mofetil may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved vaccination protocols that enhance immunity in kidney transplant recipients, reducing their risk of severe COVID-19.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that modifying immunosuppressive therapy can improve vaccine responses in similar patient populations, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: antibody against coronavirus disease 2019, antibody against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, antibody to coronavirus disease 2019

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.