Mechanism of early tissue responses in vaccination with mRNA vaccines
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An experimental medicine study of early tissue response in vaccination with lipid encapsulated non-amplifying mRNA in Lymph nodE single-cell Genomics in AnCestrY and ageing
IRAS ID
347668
Contact name
Katrina Pollock
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Research Governance, Ethics and Assurance (RGEA), University of Oxford
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
For older adults and people on specific immunosuppressive medications, such as those for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), mRNA vaccines do not appear to work as well. We want to understand why by examining samples taken directly from the lymph nodes in the armpit after a mRNA vaccine and comparing them with samples from younger adults without immunosuppressive therapies. By doing so, we aim to improve future vaccine designs, especially for those who need new vaccines the most such as older people and people with immune conditions.Lymph nodes are bean-shaped organs that play a central role in producing immune cells after a vaccine is given. Using ultrasound scanning, we can collect cells from these lymph nodes to see how the body’s immune system reacts to an mRNA vaccine. This is called ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) and is commonly used for patients in the clinic.
This study will look at how the lymph nodes respond when people from three groups— younger adults, older adults, and individuals on anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy—are given a licensed COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. We will aim to recruit 45 people per group (15 aged 18-45 years, 15 aged 65 years or above, 15 aged 18-50 on anti-TNF therapy). Participants will also receive the season influenza vaccine separately 4 weeks after the mRNA vaccine. All will have FNA from both armpits 14 days and 112 days after the mRNA vaccine. There will be an optional FNA at day 56.
Participants will be assessed for eligibility at a screening visit; those eligible to take part will attend up to 6 more visits over 24 weeks.
Blood samples will be taken at each visit.
REC name
North West - Haydock Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NW/0164
Date of REC Opinion
19 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion