Mechanism of early tissue responses in vaccination with mRNA vaccines
This research project aims to understand why mRNA vaccines, such as the COVID-19 jabs, might not protect older adults and people taking certain medications, like those for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as effectively. Scientists will gently collect tiny samples from the lymph nodes under the armpit after people receive an mRNA vaccine. These samples will be compared between younger healthy adults, older adults, and individuals on specific immune-suppressing treatments. By looking closely at these samples, the study hopes to discover how the immune system responds differently in these groups. The main goal is to use this information to develop better vaccines in the future, particularly for those who need extra protection, like older people and those with certain health conditions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
You might have heard that some vaccines, like those used for COVID-19, don't always protect older people or those on certain special medicines (like some treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD) as well as they protect younger, healthy adults. This study wants to find out why this happens.
Our bodies have special 'glands' called lymph nodes, found in places like your armpits. These lymph nodes are like training camps for your immune system, where cells learn to fight off infections after you've had a vaccine. The researchers in this study will gently take very tiny samples from these lymph nodes after someone has received an mRNA vaccine. They will look really closely at these samples to see exactly what's going on inside.
By comparing samples from younger adults, older adults, and people on specific IBD medicines, the team hopes to learn what might be different in how their immune systems react. This knowledge is really important because it could help doctors and scientists design better vaccines in the future, especially for people who need them the most.
Key takeaways
- Aims to understand why mRNA vaccines work differently in older adults and those on certain medications.
- Compares immune responses by studying small samples from armpit lymph nodes.
- Involves healthy younger adults, older adults, and people on anti-TNF therapy for IBD.
- Participants will receive COVID-19 and flu vaccines.
- Could help develop better, more effective vaccines for vulnerable groups.
- Study based at Oxford Vaccine Group and funded by UK research bodies.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for healthy volunteers and patients to join. You could be eligible if you are in one of three groups: either aged between 18 and 45 years, or aged 65 years or older, or aged between 18 and 50 years and currently taking a specific type of medicine called anti-TNF therapy for a condition like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
To be considered, you should be generally healthy and not expected to need hospital care during the study. You also need to be able to attend all the study visits and provide your informed consent. Importantly, all participants must have already received at least two doses of a UK-approved COVID-19 vaccine.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 45 years old, OR 65 years or older, OR 18-50 years old and on anti-TNF therapy?
- Have you received at least two doses of a UK-approved COVID-19 vaccine?
- Are you generally healthy and not expecting to be hospitalised soon?
- Can you attend regular appointments over about 6 months in Oxford?
- Are you willing to have small samples taken from your armpit lymph nodes and blood tests?
- If you could get pregnant, are you willing to avoid pregnancy during the study?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll first have a screening visit to check if you're suitable. If you are, you'll need to attend up to six more visits over about 24 weeks (roughly six months).
During the study, you will receive a licensed COVID-19 mRNA vaccine, and then a seasonal flu vaccine about four weeks later. The key part of the study involves a procedure called a 'fine needle aspiration' (FNA). This is where a very thin needle is used to take a tiny sample of cells from your armpit lymph nodes. This will happen on both armpits on two main occasions: 14 days and 112 days after your mRNA vaccine. There might also be an optional FNA around day 42. At each visit, blood samples will also be collected. Your full participation will last for about 24 weeks in total.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- University of OxfordApproximateOxford, England
- John Radcliffe HospitalApproximateOxford, England
Common questions
What are lymph nodes?
Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands in your body that are part of your immune system. They help filter harmful substances and produce cells that fight infection.
What is an mRNA vaccine?
mRNA vaccines teach your body's cells how to make a piece of a virus (like the COVID-19 virus), triggering an immune response, so your body knows how to fight the real virus if you get exposed.
Is the fine needle aspiration (FNA) painful?
It's usually done with local anaesthetic to numb the area, so most people only feel a bit of pressure or mild discomfort, similar to a blood test, but in the armpit area.
Will I get paid for taking part?
The study information provided doesn't mention payment for participation; however, travel expenses are often reimbursed. You can ask the study contact for more details.
What is anti-TNF therapy?
Anti-TNF therapy is a type of medicine used to treat conditions where the immune system is overactive, such as certain types of arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
How to find out more
Nelly Owino
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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