Adjusting Immunosuppression to Improve COVID-19 Vaccine Response in Kidney Transplant Recipients

Impact of Immunosuppression Adjustment on the Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccination in Kidney Transplant Recipients (ADIVKT)

Phase 4 Interventional University of California, Davis · NCT05060991

This study is testing if lowering the medication that suppresses the immune system can help kidney transplant recipients get a better response from their third COVID-19 vaccine shot.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, Davis Academic / other
Locations1 site (Sacramento, California)
Trial IDNCT05060991 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates whether reducing immunosuppression can enhance the immune response to a third dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine in kidney transplant recipients. It is a prospective, randomized open-label trial involving participants who have previously received two doses of mRNA vaccines and are eligible for a third dose. The study aims to assess both the effectiveness of this approach in generating a better antibody response and the safety of reducing immunosuppression during the vaccination process.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are kidney transplant recipients who have received two doses of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and show low or negative antibody responses.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant or have contraindications to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve COVID-19 vaccine responses in kidney transplant recipients, enhancing their protection against the virus.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that immunosuppressed individuals often have poor vaccine responses, but this specific approach of adjusting immunosuppression for improved vaccine efficacy is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Participant is willing and able to give informed consent for participation in the study
* First or repeat kidney transplant recipient
* Negative or low positive antibody titer on SARS-CoV-2 antibody assay
* On a mycophenolate or azathioprine based immunosuppressive regimen
* \> 6 months post-transplant

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy
* Contraindication to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination (severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis)

Where this trial is running

Sacramento, California

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions COVID-19ImmunosuppressionVaccine Response Impaired
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.