Control of HIV-1 latency and reservoir persistence in primary cells
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-11408956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how HIV hides in immune cells and how to target those hidden reservoirs in people living with HIV on therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | June 3, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $2,373,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI197904-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11408956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People living with HIV who are on ART and have latent HIV reservoirs may indirectly benefit through future translational applications.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals not living with HIV or those not on ART are unlikely to benefit from this basic mechanism study.
What this research studies
This project uses a human cell–based model and mouse xenografts to study where and how latent HIV persists in memory CD4+ T cells. The team will map HIV integration sites and compare latent versus active proviruses to understand what maintains latency. Findings could guide new strategies to reduce or eliminate the latent reservoir in people receiving ART. The work integrates advanced CRISPR screening and primary cell genetics to mimic human infection more accurately.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could inform strategies to achieve durable HIV remission or cure by reducing the latent reservoir in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work with humanized mouse models and primary CD4+ T cells has provided insights into latency, with incremental but promising progress.
Where this research is happening
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Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bieniasz, Paul D. — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Bieniasz, Paul D.
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.