Creating specialized immune cells to target HIV in the brain
Development of Gamma delta CAR-T cells to target CNS HIV reservoir
['FUNDING_R21'] · TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA · NIH-10757944
This study is exploring a new way to help people with HIV by creating special immune cells that can find and destroy HIV-infected cells in the brain, which could improve brain health and thinking skills for those living with the virus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10757944 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of immune cell, called gamma delta CAR-T cells, to specifically target and eliminate HIV-infected cells in the central nervous system (CNS). The approach aims to address the challenge of HIV persistence in the brain, which is often resistant to standard treatments. By engineering these immune cells to recognize and attack HIV-infected macrophages, the research seeks to improve outcomes for individuals living with HIV who experience cognitive impairments. The study will involve laboratory experiments and may lead to innovative therapies for eradicating HIV from the CNS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are on antiretroviral therapy but still experience neurological issues related to the virus.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who do not have neurological complications related to HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective treatments that eliminate HIV from the brain, potentially improving cognitive function and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using CAR-T cells is gaining traction, this specific application targeting HIV in the CNS is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES
- TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA — NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ROUT, NAMITA — TULANE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
- Study coordinator: ROUT, NAMITA
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 below.