Creating a new type of HIV for studying AIDS

Engineering simian-compatible HIV-1

NIH-funded research University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-11009371

This study is looking at a specially modified version of the HIV virus to help researchers learn how it affects the immune system, which could lead to better treatments and vaccines for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Fort Worth, United States)
Project IDNIH-11009371 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on engineering a modified version of the HIV virus that is compatible with simian models to better understand AIDS pathogenesis. By constructing a chimeric HIV-1 backbone with minimal SIV gene fragments, the study aims to investigate how this modified virus can activate resting T cells, which is crucial for understanding HIV replication and developing effective vaccines and therapies. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research, which could lead to improved treatments for HIV/AIDS. The methodology involves using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells to test the activation of T cells by the engineered virus.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals affected by HIV/AIDS or those at high risk of infection.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by HIV/AIDS or do not have risk factors for the virus may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating HIV/AIDS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research with similar approaches has shown promise, particularly in the use of chimeric viruses for studying HIV dynamics.

Where this research is happening

Fort Worth, 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 SyndromeAcquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency SyndromeAcquired 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.