Administrative Core: Immunization against Multidrug-resistant Pathogens: Activating T Cell Immunity (IMPACT-CETR)

Boston Children'S Hospital, Boston MA

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract (Administrative Core) This U19 proposal is in response to RFA-AI-23-065, Centers for Excellence in Translational Research (CETR). The immediate goal of the proposed project, entitled “Immunization against Multidrug-resistant Pathogens: Activating T Cell Immunity (IMPACT-CETR)” is to translate our basic knowledge in lung immunology, bacteriology, vaccinology, bacterial genomics, carbohydrate chemistry, and adjuvant formulations to achieve 3 deliverables: (1) novel multicomponent T cell based vaccines to combat antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus with broad serotype- and strain-independent protection; (2) biomarkers of protection; and (3) nonhuman primate models that allow investigation of scale-up, toxicity, and immunogenicity. These deliverables will be supported by an Administrative Core and 3 Scientific Cores that focus on bioinformatics, single-cell RNA transcriptomics, and novel murine transgenic models. We have assembled a team of leaders in the fields of immunology, microbiology, and vaccinology, complemented by first-class technological domain experts. This complex, multi-year project requires thoughtful and cogent administration to ensure resources are appropriately allocated, managed, and accounted for, and that communication both within the CETR and between the CETR and the NIH is optimized. The specific aims (SA) of the administrative core include: SA1: Provide infrastructure for administrative leadership aimed at building an interactive and collaborative working team resulting in maximal project synergy. SA2: Facilitate and promote communication and interactions amongst the Project and Core Leads by conducting regular videoconferences/face-to-face meetings, annual meetings, as well as seminars/symposia focused on the IMPACT-CETR. SA3: Manage and optimize communication within the IMPACT-CETR and between the CETR and the NIAID CETR Steering Committee. SA4: Resolve potential conflicts that might arise within and outside of our IMPACT-CETR by implementing recommendations of the Conflicts Resolution Group (CRG). SA5: Provide fiscal, regulatory and scientific oversight, review and consolidate yearly progress reports sent to the NIH. SA6: Protect intellectual property rights of our investigators and execute material transfer agreements. SA7: Implement the data management/sharing plan among investigators within and outside of our IMPACT-CETR team. Successful completion of these Specific Aims will help ensure appropriate stewardship of NIH funds, will enhance adherence to IMPACT-CETR project timelines, and will optimize and maximize the scientific impact of the proposed IMPACT-CETR studies.