A long-lasting implant to treat hepatitis C in people with HIV
Official title: Long-Acting Antiviral Implant for the Treatment of HCV
Funded at Luna Labs USA, LLC · NIH-11180683 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new implant that slowly releases two medicines to help treat hepatitis C in people who also have HIV, making it easier for them to manage their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Luna Labs USA, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $299,997 |
| NIH project number | 75N93024C00028-0-9999-1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11180683 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with both HIV and hepatitis C.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are only infected with hepatitis C or those without HIV may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a long-acting antiviral implant designed to treat hepatitis C (HCV) in individuals who are also living with HIV. The implant will release two antiviral medications, sofosbuvir and daclatasvir, over an extended period, which could simplify treatment regimens for patients. By using a thermo-responsive hydrogel, the implant will solidify after being injected under the skin, allowing for sustained drug release as the implant degrades. This innovative approach aims to reduce the health complications associated with co-infection of HCV and HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and convenient treatment option for patients co-infected with HIV and HCV, potentially leading to better health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing long-acting antiviral treatments, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Luna Labs USA, LLC
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wright, Melissa — Luna Labs USA, LLC
- Study coordinator: Wright, Melissa
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.