Stanford researchers test universal nasal vaccine for respiratory viruses and allergens

Stanford researchers led by Professor Bali Pulendran tested a pathogen-agnostic nasal vaccine in mice that produced tertiary lymphoid structures after SARS-CoV-2 exposure, and they say human safety and efficacy trials are planned in about three to five years.

Researchers at Stanford University are conducting preclinical work on a nasal, pathogen-agnostic vaccine intended to protect against a range of respiratory viruses, some bacteria, and allergens. The work is led by Professor Bali Pulendran and has so far involved experiments in mice. Results reported to CBS News Bay Area show immune structures forming after exposure to SARS‑CoV‑2 in vaccinated animals. The team plans to design human studies to evaluate safety and efficacy, with an estimated timeline of three to five years. Key details: - The study is in a preclinical stage and was conducted in mice under the direction of Professor Bali Pulendran. - The vaccine is described as pathogen-agnostic and does not contain pieces of any virus or pathogen. - In mice that received the vaccine, researchers reported the rapid formation of tertiary lymphoid structures within three days after SARS‑CoV‑2 infection. - Dr. Peter Chin‑Hong of UCSF characterized the approach as an innovative, general tool but noted differences in delivering such an intervention to human respiratory systems and the need for further testing. - Pulendran said the next step is to design and conduct human trials to assess safety and efficacy, with an anticipated timeframe of about three to five years. Summary: Researchers report that the nasal vaccine prompted measurable immune activity in mice and is intended to offer broad protection across multiple respiratory threats and allergens. Human testing to evaluate safety and efficacy is planned, with a projected timeline of roughly three to five years.