Creating specialized immune cells to help control viral infections without antiretroviral therapy.
Official title: Generation of highly differentiated NK cells to synergize with broadly neutralizing antibodies to establish viral control in absence of ART
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10838720 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells can work with antibodies to help fight off HIV, using insights from African green monkeys that naturally manage similar infections, with the hope of improving treatment options for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 12, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $799,017 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI181710-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10838720 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are seeking alternative treatment options beyond traditional antiretroviral therapy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who are not responsive to immune-based therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing highly differentiated natural killer (NK) cells that can work alongside broadly neutralizing antibodies to control viral infections, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS. The approach involves studying the immune response in African green monkeys, which naturally control SIV infections, to identify effective NK cell characteristics. By understanding how these NK cells function, the research aims to replicate their beneficial effects in humans, potentially enhancing immune responses against HIV without the need for continuous antiretroviral therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that allow patients to control viral infections more effectively without relying on lifelong antiretroviral therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing immune responses through similar approaches, particularly in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Paiardini, Mirko — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Paiardini, Mirko
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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.