Developing a method to deliver HIV antibodies without triggering immune responses
Official title: Eliminating the Immunogenicity of AAV Vectored HIV Antibody Delivery
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11009039 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with HIV by using special viruses to deliver powerful antibodies that can fight the virus, and it aims to make sure these antibodies work well in the body without being blocked by the immune system.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 8, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $817,309 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174276-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009039 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of HIV infection who may benefit from enhanced preventive measures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already living with HIV or those who have contraindications to AAV vector administration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to improve the delivery of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) against HIV using adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. The approach involves engineering these vectors to minimize immune responses that can hinder their effectiveness. By studying the immune reactions in patients at a detailed level, the research aims to identify the factors that lead to successful antibody expression. The ultimate goal is to create a reliable method for providing long-lasting protection against HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective and long-lasting method of HIV prevention for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous clinical trials have shown promise in using AAV vectors for antibody delivery, indicating that this approach has potential based on earlier successes.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Balazs, Alejandro Benjamin — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Balazs, Alejandro Benjamin
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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.