Vaccine built from Staph aureus surface proteins
Vaccine Assembly from Surface Proteins of Staphylococcus aureus
This project develops a vaccine from Staph aureus surface proteins to help prevent infections in people who carry or are at risk for Staph.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11310754 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on making a vaccine from proteins on the surface of Staphylococcus aureus, especially protein A (SpA) that helps the bacteria hide from the immune system. Researchers use genetic and biochemical methods to alter these surface proteins so they no longer block antibody function, and they test the modified proteins in laboratory and animal models. The team measures antibody binding, complement activation, and B cell responses to find vaccine designs that prompt protective immunity. If lab and animal results are promising, the work could progress toward human testing at the University of Chicago or partner sites.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who carry Staph aureus in the nose or who are at high risk for Staph infections—such as those with recurrent skin or wound infections, frequent hospital exposure, or certain surgical patients—would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People with an active Staph infection or certain severe immune system disorders may not receive benefit from this preventive vaccine research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a vaccine that lowers the risk of MRSA and other Staph infections and their complications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous Staph vaccine attempts largely failed in clinical trials, but targeting protein A (SpA) is a newer strategy with promising results in preclinical studies.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Missiakas, Dominique — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Missiakas, Dominique
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.