Using circular RNA to enhance vaccine effectiveness
Official title: Circularization of RNA to improve the durability of the vaccine immune response
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11131375 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to make mRNA vaccines work better and last longer by using a special type of RNA, which could help your body remember how to fight off viruses like hantaviruses without needing to get vaccinated as often.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | May 5, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $798,400 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI184768-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11131375 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for emerging viral infections, particularly those susceptible to hantaviruses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for viral infections or those who have already received effective vaccinations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the durability of immune responses generated by mRNA vaccines by utilizing circular RNA technology. Circular RNA has unique properties that allow for prolonged expression and a weaker innate immune response, which may lead to a more effective and lasting antibody response. By mimicking natural antigen delivery kinetics, this approach aims to enhance the body's immune memory and reduce the need for frequent revaccinations. The study specifically targets the immune response to emerging viral infections, such as hantaviruses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to vaccines that provide longer-lasting immunity, reducing the frequency of vaccinations needed.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using novel RNA technologies to enhance vaccine responses, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abbott, Robert Koehler — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Abbott, Robert Koehler
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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.