Creating advanced CAR T cells to fight HIV
Official title: Developing potent HIV-specific CAR T cells through optimizing antigen sensitivity
Funded at Wistar Institute · NIH-11110422 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of treatment using specially designed immune cells to help people with HIV by making them better at finding and fighting HIV-infected cells, which could lead to improved health without just relying on standard medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wistar Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 7, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $558,595 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI186810-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110422 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals living with HIV who are seeking alternative treatment options beyond standard antiretroviral therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS with significant immune system damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing genetically engineered CAR T cells that specifically target HIV. By enhancing the sensitivity of these cells to recognize and attack HIV-infected cells, the goal is to improve their effectiveness in reducing viral loads and preventing the loss of immune cells. The approach involves optimizing the design of CAR T cells to ensure they can effectively respond to low levels of HIV antigens, which is crucial for successful treatment. Patients may benefit from a novel therapy that could potentially lead to better management of HIV without relying solely on antiretroviral drugs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective treatment for HIV, potentially reducing the need for lifelong antiretroviral therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with CAR T cell therapies in treating blood cancers, suggesting potential for success in targeting HIV as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Wistar Institute
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Claiborne, Daniel Thomas — Wistar Institute
- Study coordinator: Claiborne, Daniel Thomas
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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.