Discovery of Adjuvants that Direct T-cell Fates for Improved Safety and Efficacy in Vaccines Against Influenza and Tuberculosis

University Of Chicago, Chicago IL

Investigators

Abstract

The offeror proposes to discover adjuvants with two sets of unique properties – (1) directing T cell fates and (2) improving the response to mRNA vaccines. This will be accomplished by screening novel immune-potentiators that direct the innate immune response of the original vaccine or adjuvant to induce new immune phenotypes. The goal will be to discover new adjuvant systems that (1) selectively direct T cell fates toward TFH, TH17, TH1, and TH2; and (2) modify the cytokine profile of mRNA vaccinations toward safer and more effective responses while maintaining and improving antibody levels.