Creating HIV-resistant blood stem cells
Official title: Developing HIV Resistant Hematopoietic Stem Cells through Targeted Base Editing
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-11006788 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with HIV by using gene editing to make their blood stem cells resistant to the virus, which could lead to a potential cure and lessen the need for ongoing medication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,403 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AI186590-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11006788 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking alternative treatment options beyond traditional antiretroviral therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced stages of HIV-related complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing hematopoietic stem cells that are resistant to HIV infection by targeting specific co-receptors, CCR5 and CXCR4, which are essential for the virus to enter CD4 cells. The approach involves using advanced gene editing techniques to modify these co-receptors, aiming to prevent HIV from infecting the cells while preserving their normal functions. Patients may benefit from this innovative strategy as it seeks to provide a potential cure for HIV, reducing reliance on lifelong antiretroviral therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a functional cure for HIV, significantly improving the quality of life for those affected.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in gene editing approaches targeting CCR5 for HIV resistance, indicating potential success for this novel strategy.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Joubran, Samantha — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Joubran, Samantha
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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.