A new test for quickly detecting HIV-1 infections at home

The HIV-Stick Assay: A Rapid, Molecular Detection Approach for Self-Monitoring HIV-1 Rebound Infection

NIH-funded research Darwin Biosciences, INC. · NIH-11172344

This study is working on a simple and affordable home test that lets people check for early signs of HIV-1 infection or monitor their viral load if they’re already living with HIV, making it easier for them to take charge of their health without needing to visit a lab.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDarwin Biosciences, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Broomfield, United States)
Project IDNIH-11172344 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create a low-cost, rapid diagnostic test that allows individuals to self-monitor for HIV-1 infections, particularly during the early stages of infection or when there is a risk of viral rebound in those already living with HIV. The test is designed for easy use at home, enabling individuals to collect their own samples and obtain results without needing to send samples to a lab. This approach is particularly beneficial for those at risk of HIV infection or those on antiretroviral therapy who need to monitor their viral load closely.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk of HIV infection, such as those taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and people living with HIV who need to monitor for viral spikes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of HIV infection and those who are not undergoing treatment for HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could empower patients to detect HIV-1 infections earlier and manage their health more effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing rapid diagnostic tests for HIV, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Broomfield, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.