Combining broadly neutralizing antibodies to target single HIV particles in blood

Broadly neutralizing antibody combinations with single virions in HIV+ plasma

NIH-funded research University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11247059

Researchers are combining different broadly neutralizing antibodies to try to block diverse HIV particles found in the blood of people living with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11247059 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This work uses blood plasma from people with HIV to study how individual virus particles respond to different combinations of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). The team examines single virions and uses lab-based assays to predict which antibody combinations are most likely to stop viral escape. The goal is to narrow down promising triple-antibody combinations before moving into expensive animal or human testing. By using a rational preclinical selection process, the project aims to speed identification of bnAb mixes that are potent across many viral variants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Adults living with HIV, especially those with detectable virus in their blood who can provide plasma samples or be considered for future antibody trials, are the most relevant candidates.

Not a fit: People without HIV or those whose virus is already stably undetectable on antiretroviral therapy may not receive direct benefit from this preclinical laboratory work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this could produce antibody combinations that better control diverse HIV strains and reduce the chance the virus escapes, improving treatment and prevention options.

How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical and preclinical work with single and paired bnAbs has shown promise in lowering viral levels and preventing infection, but finding broadly effective combinations remains challenging.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.