Developing a new HIV vaccine using messenger RNA to trigger immune responses

Messenger RNA immunogens for initiation of HIV V3-glycan neutralizing B cell lineages

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10338057

This study is working on a new type of vaccine that uses mRNA to help your immune system fight HIV by teaching it to make special antibodies, and it's designed for people who want better protection against this virus.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10338057 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a vaccine that uses messenger RNA (mRNA) to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against HIV. By targeting specific glycans on the HIV virus, the goal is to induce long-lasting broadly neutralizing antibodies that can effectively inhibit HIV infection. The approach involves designing mRNA constructs that encode for these targets, testing them in humanized mice and Rhesus macaques, and eventually preparing for human trials. This innovative method aims to enhance the body's immune response while minimizing safety risks associated with traditional vaccines.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for HIV infection who are interested in participating in early-phase vaccine trials.

Not a fit: Patients who are already living with HIV or those who have contraindications to mRNA vaccines may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking HIV vaccine that provides long-lasting protection against the virus.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using mRNA technology for vaccines, indicating potential success for this novel approach in HIV prevention.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.
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.