Understanding how past COVID-19 vaccinations affect responses to new variants
Elucidating the impact of immune imprinting on SARS-CoV-2 variant vaccination strategies using a humanized mouse model
This study is looking at how past COVID-19 vaccinations affect our immune response to newer variants like Omicron BA.4/5, using special mice to understand why some vaccines might not work as well anymore, and it aims to find ways to make vaccines more effective against these changing strains of the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10785394 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how previous vaccinations against the original SARS-CoV-2 variant influence the immune response to newer variants, particularly focusing on the Omicron BA.4/5 variant. Using a humanized mouse model, the study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms behind immune imprinting, which may limit the effectiveness of updated vaccines. By analyzing antibody responses, the research seeks to identify strategies for improving vaccine efficacy against evolving strains of the virus. This work is crucial for developing better vaccination strategies that can adapt to the ongoing changes in the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have received prior vaccinations against the original SARS-CoV-2 variant and are concerned about their immunity to newer variants.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been vaccinated against any SARS-CoV-2 variants may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective vaccines that provide better protection against emerging COVID-19 variants.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses to viral variants can lead to improved vaccine designs, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bowen, Anthony — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Bowen, Anthony
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 below.