Designing new immunogens to fight HIV-1 using SHIV-infected monkeys

SHIV-guided design of novel HIV-1 fusion peptide immunogens

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11059866

This study is looking at how monkeys infected with a virus similar to HIV can develop strong antibodies that fight the virus, which could help scientists create better vaccines for people with HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11059866 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how SHIV-infected rhesus macaques develop broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1, which can inform the design of new immunogens for potential vaccines. By analyzing the immune responses in these monkeys, the researchers aim to identify critical steps in the elicitation of these antibodies, including the priming of B cell precursors and the boosting of immune responses. The study will involve creating novel SHIVs to guide the design of immunogens that can effectively stimulate the immune system to produce protective antibodies against HIV-1.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for HIV infection or those living with HIV who may benefit from improved vaccine strategies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who are already effectively managing their HIV with current treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective vaccines against HIV-1, potentially reducing the incidence of AIDS.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using animal models to guide vaccine development, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements in HIV vaccine strategies.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 Syndrome VirusAcquired 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.