NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Developing a new HIV vaccine to enhance immune responses

Official title: Design and optimization of DL-NLTs and molecular adjuvants to increase potency and promote NAb formation in vivo

Funded at Wistar Institute · NIH-11011258 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking for people to help test new HIV vaccines that aim to boost your immune system's ability to fight the virus by using special ingredients that help your body recognize and respond to it better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWistar Institute
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project startDecember 8, 2022
Project endNovember 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$924,582
NIH project number5U19AI166916-03
Project IDNIH-11011258 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation would include individuals at risk for HIV or those living with HIV who are seeking new treatment options.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who have already achieved viral suppression with existing therapies may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating innovative vaccine candidates for HIV-1 that can stimulate strong immune responses, including the production of neutralizing antibodies and T cell responses. The approach involves using DNA-launched immunogens that self-assemble in the body to present the right targets for the immune system while avoiding those that could lead to ineffective responses. By combining these immunogens with molecular adjuvants, the research aims to enhance the body's ability to fight HIV effectively. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials that test these new vaccine candidates.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective HIV vaccine that significantly improves immune protection against the virus.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing similar vaccine strategies, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Wistar Institute
    Philadelphia, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Weiner, David B. — Wistar Institute
  • Study coordinator: Weiner, David B.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
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Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.