A new injectable treatment to prevent and control HIV infections
Official title: An injectable hydrogel platform for sustained release of eCD4-Ig
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10867531 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new injectable gel that can slowly release a special molecule to help protect people from HIV for up to six months with just one shot, making it easier for those at high risk to stay safe without needing daily medication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $793,531 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI154989-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867531 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for HIV infection or those living with HIV who may benefit from enhanced viral suppression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who are already effectively managing their HIV with current therapies may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an injectable hydrogel that can deliver a powerful antibody-like molecule called eCD4-Ig for long-term protection against HIV. By optimizing this hydrogel, the goal is to provide sustained release of eCD4-Ig, potentially offering effective viral suppression and robust prophylaxis for up to six months after a single injection. This approach aims to address the limitations of current HIV prevention methods, such as the need for daily medication and access issues for high-risk populations. Patients may benefit from a more convenient and effective way to manage their risk of HIV infection.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a long-lasting and effective method for preventing and controlling HIV infections, significantly improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar antibody-based approaches for HIV prevention, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
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Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farzan, Michael R. — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Farzan, Michael R.
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.