Vaccine Development

MIT-MGH team finds a new approach to cancer vaccination that yields more powerful T cells

Clinical trial using a controlled human infection model paves way for an effective vaccine against hookworm disease

A phase 2 human clinical trial of a hookworm antigen has shown effective in limiting the intensity of infection, paving the way for a vaccine. The study found that vaccination with Na-GST-1 reduced the severity of infection in participants.

Vaccine strategy induces broadly neutralising HIV antibodies

A new vaccine strategy has generated antibodies capable of neutralising highly divergent HIV variants in an animal model. The study provides new insights into how the immune system can be guided towards a particularly protected part of the virus, which is important for developing an effective HIV vaccine.

Scientists esteemed by public, with vaccine scientists seen as similar to scientists in general

A nationally representative survey found that nearly 7 in 10 people trust vaccine scientists to act in their best interests, similar to medical scientists and scientists in general. The public perceives vaccine scientists as credible, self-correcting, and unbiased, with their work benefiting society.

Researchers develop promising new vaccine against H5N1 bird flu

Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have developed a promising new vaccine approach against highly pathogenic bird flu (H5N1) that demonstrates strong efficacy in both mice and dairy cattle. The vaccine platform protects against multiple H5N1 strains and generates immunity in both the bloodstream and respiratory tract.

Study reveals new way to strengthen immunity against the flu

Researchers developed a new flu vaccine approach targeting specific but distinct regions of the influenza virus protein. This method broadened the immune response, leading to broader protection against various strains. The study's findings have implications for fighting other fast-changing viruses like COVID-19 and RSV.

We're taking a closer look at immune 'memory'

Researchers have found that COVID vaccines can train immune cells to remember the SARS-CoV-2 virus and protect against severe infection for years afterward. However, the continued spread of disease has scientists taking a closer look at how the immune system builds up immune memory over time.

Researchers uncover how obesity impairs vaccine response

Researchers found that obesity significantly impaired antibody production to a Pseudomonas aeruginosa vaccine in mouse models. The study suggests prioritizing tissue-resident immunity to boost protection against infections. Understanding this relationship addresses a significant gap in current vaccine research.

Scientists uncover how vaccine adjuvants separate protection from reactogenicity

Researchers found that squalene-based adjuvants activate distinct pathways for vaccine protection and reactogenicity, including the role of IL-1β in enhancing efficacy and IL-1α in triggering local swelling. The study's findings could lead to safer vaccine design by targeting specific immune mechanisms.

Improving vaccine design for Ebola, HIV and more

Researchers at Scripps Research create a nanodisc platform that preserves key parts of viral surface proteins, allowing for better understanding of antibody interactions. This approach can be applied to other viruses with similar membrane-embedded proteins, such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.

Novel flu vaccine offers broad protection in mice, study finds

A novel flu vaccine platform uses cell-derived extracellular vesicles to induce cross-protective immunity against influenza virus infections. The vaccine shows promise as an effective mucosal vaccine strategy.

Large mapping of hereditary differences in the immune system

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have mapped immune gene variation across multiple global populations, identifying common genetic variants that affect antibody production. The findings may contribute to understanding infection susceptibility and inform vaccine design.

New lipid nanoparticle design improves precision of mRNA vaccine delivery

Researchers redesigned a key component of lipid nanoparticles to steer particles toward lymph nodes, reducing off-target delivery. This advancement could make mRNA vaccines more efficient, potentially achieving strong immune protection at lower doses.

Engineered lipid nanoparticles reprogram immune metabolism for better mRNA vaccines

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania developed lipid nanoparticles that modify immune metabolism to strengthen mRNA vaccines and reduce common side effects. The new lipid boosts the metabolism of immune cells, providing energy for the body's defenses while dialing down inflammatory signals.

Dengue vaccine remains 80.5% effective against severe cases after five years

The Butantan-DV dengue vaccine, developed in Brazil, shows 80.5% effectiveness against severe cases over five years, with no hospitalizations in the vaccinated group. The vaccine was 65% effective in preventing symptomatic dengue during the five-year monitoring period.

Building protection against infectious diseases with nanostructured vaccines

Researchers at the Wyss Institute developed DoriVac, a DNA nanotechnology-enabled vaccine platform that induces broad immunity against infectious viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, HIV, and Ebola. The platform produces potent antigen-specific immune responses and is more stable and easier to manufacture than traditional vaccine platforms.

Low-cost preventive measures could mitigate spread of bacteria causing neonatal mortality

A new study discovered that a multifaceted infection prevention and control intervention successfully disrupted a large and long-running bacterial outbreak of Klebsiella pneumoniae in a Zambian neonatal intensive care unit. The study found that low-cost measures, including IPC training, enhanced cleaning, and hand hygiene, reduced neon...

Contraceptive vaccine reduces fertility in animals to address wildlife overpopulation

A Purdue University-developed contraceptive vaccine reduces fertility in feral horses, deer, swine, and other animals, overcoming limitations of existing models. The vaccine, based on a male sperm protein, induces a long-lasting immune response and infertility in female mammals, with promising results for wildlife management.

NUS Medicine-Monash study: Intranasal vaccine booster shows stronger immune response and protection against sarbecoviruses

The study found that the intranasal vaccine booster Clec9A OMNI induced significantly stronger neutralising antibody responses and robust T-cell responses in the lungs and nasal tissues, offering robust protection against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron infection. This breakthrough may address current shortcomings of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, includi...

One vaccine may provide broad protection against many respiratory infections and allergens

Researchers developed a universal vaccine formula that provides broad protection against respiratory viruses, bacteria and even allergens. The vaccine is delivered intranasally and works for a wide spectrum of respiratory threats, including SARS-CoV-2 and common hospital-acquired infections.

Novel vaccine protects against C. diff disease and recurrence

A novel vaccination approach cleared harmful gut bacterium Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) in an animal model of infection. The experimental vaccine protected against illness, death, tissue damage and infection recurrence through mucosal immunization.

Batista Lab study reveals how local antibody feedback regulates B cell competition and promotes immune diversity

Researchers at Ragon Institute discovered that antibodies produced in germinal centers act as a 'brake' on selection, redirecting the immune system toward broader protection. Stronger-binding B cells suppress weaker ones targeting the same site, establishing a localized feedback loop.

Scientific sleuthing solves vaccine side-effect

Researchers have identified a molecular trigger for rare blood clotting conditions after COVID19 adenovirus-based vaccines or natural adenovirus infections. The exact cause is now understood, allowing vaccine developers to adjust the adenovirus protein and prevent this extremely rare reaction.

HPV cancer vaccine slows tumor growth, extends survival in preclinical model

A new HPV cancer vaccine developed by Northwestern University scientists has shown promising results in a preclinical model. The vaccine's carefully organized structure dramatically enhances the immune system's ability to attack tumors, shrinking them and extending animal survival.

Ethris and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF) announce strategic collaboration to develop mRNA-based vaccines

The partnership aims to develop next-generation mRNA vaccines with enhanced stability and targeted delivery, providing broader protection against emerging pathogens. This collaboration combines Ethris' mRNA technology platforms with DZIF's vaccine research expertise to accelerate the development of variant-ready vaccines.

Binghamton University researcher to lead $2.5 million project to create better avian flu vaccine

A team of researchers at Binghamton University is developing a new yeast-based solution for the production of better avian flu vaccines. The project aims to improve manufacturing, storage, and transportation efficiency compared to current options.

Nasal vaccine combats bird flu infection in rodents

Researchers developed an intranasal vaccine that elicited strong immune responses and prevented infections in exposed animals, providing protection against upper respiratory infection and severe disease. The nasal vaccine was effective regardless of prior flu exposure, making it a promising tool in the fight against H5N1 bird flu.

New platform could develop vaccines faster than ever before

The new platform developed by UVA Health scientists can produce vaccines much faster, cheaper, and more easily than traditional approaches. The platform's proof-of-concept demonstrates its ability to produce highly immunogenic vaccines that can be manufactured at extremely low cost.

Preparedness for future pandemics: MERS vaccine candidate shows long-lasting immune response

A new MERS vaccine candidate has shown a stable and functional immune response in humans that persists for at least two years after a booster vaccination. The study demonstrates that such durable immunity can be achieved through targeted booster vaccinations, providing an important step toward an effective MERS vaccine.

Advance in pulmonary mRNA vaccine development

Researchers developed a new system that efficiently transfects targeted immune cells, supports antigen presentation and immune cell maturation, and successfully crosses the mucus barrier in lung models. This breakthrough offers a promising alternative to lipid nanoparticles for next-generation pulmonary mRNA vaccines.

Mass General Brigham–developed cholera vaccine completes phase 1 trial

A single-dose oral cholera vaccine called PanChol has completed a phase 1 clinical trial with positive results, offering hope for combating the devastating disease globally. The vaccine was developed by Mass General Brigham and shows promise in preventing severe vomiting and diarrhea caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria.

Nirsevimab vs RSVpreF vaccine for RSV–related hospitalization in newborns

A study published in JAMA found that nirsevimab was associated with lower risks of RSV-related hospitalization and severe outcomes compared to maternal vaccination with the RSVpreF vaccine. These findings suggest a potential benefit for passive infant immunization with nirsevimab in reducing RSV-related complications.

New vaccine could be first to prevent deadly emerging tropical disease

Researchers at Tulane University have developed the first vaccine able to protect nonhuman primates from melioidosis, a long-neglected and deadly tropical disease on the rise. The vaccine uses outer membrane vesicles to trigger a powerful immune response.

New research confirms HPV vaccination prevents cervical cancer

Two new Cochrane reviews show that HPV vaccines are effective in preventing cervical cancer and pre-cancerous changes, especially when given to young people before they are exposed to the virus. Girls vaccinated before the age of 16 were found to be 80% less likely to develop cervical cancer.

A fast, lasting defense against a deadly virus

Scientists have developed a fast-acting and long-lasting vaccine against Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF), which is one of the world's most dangerous infectious diseases. The vaccine, made from a virus-like replicon particle, provides durable humoral immunity for up to 18 months.

Molecule that could cause COVID clotting key to new treatments

Researchers discovered a 'sticky' molecule, P-selectin, that can cause blood clots and organ failure during COVID-19. A new mRNA therapy that drives P-selectin expression provides broad protection against coronavirus infection.

Biomedical Sciences researcher receives nearly $7 million in federal grants to fight STIs

Cynthia Nau Cornelissen has received nearly $7 million in federal grants to combat sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly gonorrhea. The researcher will study the human-specific pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae and develop vaccines and therapeutics using innovative approaches.

EuTYPH-C Inj.® Multi-dose demonstrates strong safety and immunogenicity: Results now available from a Phase 3 study

The Phase 3 study demonstrated the safety and non-inferiority of EuTYPH-C Inj.® Multi-dose compared to a World Health Organization (WHO) prequalified comparator TCV, Typbar TCV®. The vaccine was shown to be well-tolerated across all age groups with no serious adverse events.

New nasal vaccine has potential to transform respiratory disease prevention

A new nasally-delivered vaccine has been shown to prevent severe disease and curb bacterial transmission, addressing a global need for next-generation immunisation technologies. The vaccine targets the respiratory mucosa, providing stronger protection against respiratory infections.

MIT research finds particles that enhance mRNA delivery could reduce vaccine dosage and costs

Researchers have developed particles that can deliver an effective immune response at a much lower dose than traditional mRNA vaccines. The new particles, called AMG1541, use cyclic structures and ester groups to enhance mRNA delivery and improve biodegradability. This could potentially reduce vaccine costs and side effects.

Early-stage clinical trial demonstrates promise of intranasal influenza vaccine in generating broad immunity

Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have reported encouraging results from an early phase clinical trial of an intranasal influenza vaccine. The study found that the vaccine triggered a broad immune response, including higher levels of protective antibodies and better ability to kill infected cells.

MIT study finds targets for a new tuberculosis vaccine

Researchers at MIT have identified possible antigens for a new TB vaccine, stimulating a strong immune response in T cells. The study reveals 27 TB peptides that appear most often on infected cell surfaces and elicit a T cell response in at least some samples.

Researchers pinpoint target for treating virus that causes the stomach bug

Researchers have discovered that human astroviruses bind to a protein in human cells called the neonatal Fc receptor. The study provides a key target for vaccine development and repurposing of existing treatments.

Biomaterial vaccines to make implanted orthopedic devices safer

Researchers have developed a novel vaccine strategy using biomaterial scaffold vaccines to protect against Staphylococcus aureus infections in orthopedic device implants. The vaccines, made with immune cell-attaching molecules and S. aureus-specific antigens, create a beneficial immune response that significantly lowers bacterial burden.

Nanoparticle blueprints reveal path to smarter medicines

Scientists have characterized lipid nanoparticles' internal shape and structure, which correlates with how well they deliver therapeutic cargo. The research provides a blueprint for engineering more effective RNA therapies by matching LNP designs to specific therapies and tissues.

ESMO 2025: A glimpse into the congress program

The ESMO Congress 2025 will cover key topics including precision oncology, antibody-drug conjugates in breast cancer, dose optimisation strategies, new treatment modalities for melanoma, and immunotherapy-based approaches across various cancer settings. Promising Phase-3 studies on ADCs in bladder and lung cancer are also expected.

Safer, more effective vaccines with new mRNA vaccine technology

Researchers have developed a new mRNA vaccine technology using albumin-recruiting lipid nanoparticles to deliver vaccines precisely to lymph nodes, avoiding liver toxicity. The approach outperformed traditional delivery systems in laboratory tests, producing strong antitumor T-cell responses and high levels of neutralizing antibodies.

Breakthrough results from elephant herpesvirus trial find vaccine to be safe

A new vaccine against elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) has been shown to be safe and trigger a strong immune response, with the potential to prevent deadly EEHV disease in young Asian elephants. The vaccine was tested in adult elephants at Chester Zoo and successfully activated key parts of the immune system.

New herpes virus–based vaccine could cure cancer in the future without side effects

A new herpes virus-based vaccine has been developed that targets cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. The vaccine, which includes a gene encoding the protein decorin, was shown to enhance its cancer-killing effect on lung cancer cells and reduce tumour angiogenesis in liver cancer in chicken embryos.

Future mRNA vaccines may prevent food and seasonal allergies

A new mRNA vaccine has stopped allergens from causing immune reactions and inflammation in mice, instructing the immune system to respond more appropriately. The vaccine is tailored to encode proteins from different allergens, offering a flexible solution to treat seasonal pollen allergies, food sensitivities, and asthma.

RSV vaccines safe and effective, Cochrane review finds

A new Cochrane review finds RSV vaccines reduce the risk of infection in vulnerable groups, including older adults and infants. Vaccination also significantly reduces severe disease and hospitalization rates.

mRNA vaccine shows promise for treating age-related macular degeneration

Researchers developed an mRNA vaccine that suppresses abnormal blood vessel growth in mouse models of age-related macular degeneration. The vaccine is as effective as current therapies and offers a convenient alternative to frequent eye injections.

Internationally recognized malaria researcher Stefan Kappe, Ph.D., appointed new director of the UM School of Medicine's Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health

Stefan Kappe, a leading expert in genetic engineering of parasites, has been appointed as the new Director of the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health at UM School of Medicine. He will focus on developing genetically engineered live-attenuated pathogens to combat malaria infection.

Penn research identifies best ways to debunk COVID vaccine misinformation

Researchers found that correcting myths with facts strengthened people's intentions to get vaccinated, making myth-busting strategies a key to broader vaccine distribution. The study suggests three effective strategies for debunking false information about COVID vaccines.

High-volume antibody testing platform could accelerate disease research and treatment development

Researchers developed a high-volume method to rapidly build and test large numbers of antibodies at once, accelerating antibody research and treatment development. The oPool+ display platform has potential applications in influenza vaccination research, infectious disease treatment, and cancer research.

Myocardial infarction may be an infectious disease

Researchers discovered that atherosclerotic plaques contain gelatinous biofilms formed by bacteria, which can trigger inflammation and rupture of the plaque leading to myocardial infarction. The study also validated an antibody targeting these bacteria, suggesting new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for myocardial infarction.

New African swine fever vaccine candidate shows promise against some virus strains, but highlights challenges of broad protection

A promising African swine fever vaccine candidate offers strong protection against one strain but fails to protect against others. The study highlights the need for region-specific vaccines and calls for further research into matching vaccines to virus types.

Promising bird flu vaccine advances; organoids reveal how H5N1 scars airways

Researchers at Texas Biomed have developed a live attenuated vaccine that showed high efficacy in cells and animal models, protecting mice from lethal H5N1. The team identified potential treatment targets using human airway organoids, revealing how bird flu remodels airway cells and causes scar tissue to form.

Vaccine against Zika virus shows promising results in tests with mice

A new Zika virus vaccine developed by Brazilian researchers has been shown to be safe and effective in tests with mice, inducing an immune response and protecting against brain and testicular damage. The vaccine uses a technology known as 'virus-like particles' (VLPs) without genetic material from the pathogen.

Pneumococcal vaccine trial aims to provide more protection to babies

A new vaccine developed to protect against 21 strains of pneumococcus will be tested in a randomised controlled trial, aiming to provide greater protection for babies against serious infections. The trial is recruiting over 1600 babies across Australia and internationally.