Jarrod Mousa, PhD

Research Project:
Insights into Breast Milk Antibodies Induced by Respiratory Viruses

Grant Awarded:

Emerging Respiratory Pathogen Award

Research Topics:

basic biologic mechanisms
immunology immunotherapy

Research Diseases:

pneumonia
respiratory syncytial virus
respiratory viruses

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of serious lung infections in infants, highlighting the broader challenge of protecting newborns from RSV and other emerging microorganisms, or pathogens. A new maternal vaccine, RSVpreF, protects babies by boosting antibodies passed through the placenta and possibly through breast milk. Current maternal RSV vaccines, however, face safety limitations, underscoring the need for improved strategies against both RSV and future viral threats. This project will clarify how breast milk contributes to infant protection by identifying which parts of RSV breast milk antibodies target, how well they neutralize the virus, and which B cells produce them. Using advanced tools such as single-cell sequencing and electron microscopy, this research will reveal how maternal vaccination shapes breast milk immunity. The insights gained could guide the design of better maternal vaccines, strengthening defenses against RSV and helping prepare for emerging infectious diseases.

Supported by the Mary Fuller Russell Research Fund

Page last updated: September 28, 2026

Jarrod Mousa, PhD

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