NCT01132859 · National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
VRC 900: Evaluation of Tissue-Specific Immune Responses in Adults 18 Years of Age and Older
What this study is about
Background: \- The Vaccine Research Center (VRC) is dedicated to understanding immune responses associated with prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. To study these immune responses, researchers need to collect specimens and images from individuals who have recently had a vaccination or recovered from an infection.
View original scientific description
Background: \- The Vaccine Research Center (VRC) is dedicated to understanding immune responses associated with prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. To study these immune responses, researchers need to collect specimens and images from individuals who have recently had a vaccination or recovered from an infection. These specimens and images are used to study different diseases and immune responses, and can be used to investigate ways to prevent or treat different medical conditions. Objectives: \- To evaluate blood and other tissue samples for immune responses to vaccines and natural infections. Eligibility: \- Healthy volunteers at least 18 years of age who agree to donate specimens for research purposes. Design: * Participants will have clinical evaluations and will be asked to provide some of the following samples, depending on the research question being addressed. All procedures and sample donations are optional and voluntary: * Blood samples through regular blood draws (for whole blood) and apheresis (to collect specific parts of the blood such as plasma or white blood cells) * Urine, semen, saliva, or vaginal swab samples * Tissue samples or biopsy specimens * Undergo procedures such as bronchoscopy (lung and respiratory tract), gastrointestinal endoscopy (stomach and upper intestinal tract), or colonoscopy (lower intestinal tract) to obtain tissue samples * Undergo imaging studies such as positron emission tomography (PET) or computed tomography (CT) scans Duration of participation is variable depending on the research question but will usually last up to 1 year. \- Participants will be compensated for participation.
Primary outcome measures
To use specimens and accumulated data for enhancement of understanding the correlates of immune protection.
Time frame: Throughout the study
By sample collection and imaging studies
To evaluate blood, body fluid, and tissue immune responses and pathogen dynamics of naturally infected and antigen-na(SqrRoot) ve subjects
Time frame: Throughout the study
By sample collection and imaging studies
To evaluate innate, humoral, and cellular immune responses and pathogen dynamics in the context of vaccination in the blood, body fluids, excretions, and tissues
Time frame: Throughout the study
By sample collection and imaging studies
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 18 years of age or older.
- Able to provide proof of identity to the satisfaction of the study clinician completing the enrollment process.
- Able and willing to complete the informed consent process.
- Willing to donate specimens for storage to be used for research.
Exclusion criteria
- Any medical, psychiatric, occupational condition or other condition that, in the judgment of the investigator, is a contraindication to protocol participation or impairs a participant s ability to give informed consent.
- Bleeding disorder diagnosed by a doctor (e.g., factor deficiency, coagulopathy, or platelet disorder requiring special precautions), use of anticoagulant medications for an ongoing medical condition, significant bruising or bleeding difficulties with intramuscular injections or blood draws. \[Note: Participants taking anticoagulants, such as aspirin, prophylactically may be considered on a case to case basis.\]
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations