Vaccinating birds to prevent dangerous flu viruses from spreading to humans
Indirect Prevention of High Path Flu Zoonosis through Universal Vaccination
['FUNDING_R21'] · IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11124941
This study is working on a new type of vaccine that could help protect both chickens and people from bird flu by using special chicken eggs and mealworms to deliver the vaccine, making it safer for everyone.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AMES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124941 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a universal mRNA vaccine for avian influenza to protect both poultry and humans from potential outbreaks. By vaccinating chicken eggs and using transgenic mealworms as vaccine delivery systems, the project aims to reduce the circulation of harmful flu strains in bird populations. The approach combines innovative vaccine technology with methods to ensure the vaccines remain effective in various environments. This could significantly lower the risk of zoonotic transmission of influenza viruses to humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where avian influenza is prevalent or those who work closely with poultry.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have exposure to poultry or live in regions without avian influenza risks may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a significant reduction in the risk of avian influenza outbreaks in humans.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that vaccination strategies in animal populations can effectively reduce the transmission of zoonotic diseases, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
AMES, UNITED STATES
- IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY — AMES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VERHOEVEN, DAVID E — IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: VERHOEVEN, DAVID E
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.