Stanford Researchers Develop Universal Nasal Spray Vaccine

New approach shows promise against respiratory viruses, bacteria, and allergies in preclinical studies.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Researchers at Stanford Medicine have developed a universal nasal spray vaccine that has demonstrated broad efficacy against viruses, bacteria, and allergens in preclinical studies. The innovative vaccine aims to bolster the lungs' inherent immune defenses, providing protection against a wider range of threats than conventional vaccines.

Why it matters

This new approach to respiratory protection could revolutionize the way we prevent and treat respiratory illnesses, potentially reducing the burden of common infections and allergies worldwide. If successful in human trials, the universal vaccine could replace multiple annual shots and provide rapid defense against emerging pandemic threats.

The details

The experimental vaccine, designated GLA-3M-052-LS+OVA, utilizes a harmless antigen, ovalbumin, to attract T cells to the lungs, helping maintain an elevated state of readiness for weeks. In studies on mice, the vaccine provided protection against SARS-CoV-2, other coronaviruses, common hospital-acquired infections, and house dust mites. Vaccinated mice exhibited minimal weight loss and reduced viral loads compared to unvaccinated mice.

  • The findings were published in the journal Science on February 19, 2026.
  • Researchers are planning to initiate a Phase I clinical trial to assess the vaccine's safety profile.

The players

Bali Pulendran, PhD

Professor of microbiology and immunology at Stanford Medicine and senior author of the study.

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What they’re saying

“The level of protection observed exceeded initial expectations.”

— Bali Pulendran, PhD, Professor of microbiology and immunology

What’s next

If the Phase I trial yields positive results, larger studies will follow, potentially including controlled exposure to infections to directly measure the vaccine's protective capabilities.

The takeaway

This new universal nasal spray vaccine represents a significant step forward in the quest for a single solution to prevent a wide range of respiratory illnesses and allergies, potentially revolutionizing the way we approach respiratory disease prevention.