Developing an mRNA vaccine to improve immune responses against HIV
Official title: HIV mRNA vaccine strategies for efficient priming, diversity and durability of immune responses
Funded at La Jolla Institute for Immunology · NIH-11064036 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new mRNA vaccine designed to help your immune system fight HIV better by encouraging it to produce strong antibodies that can target different strains of the virus, and it's for anyone interested in improving HIV prevention and treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | La Jolla Institute for Immunology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $874,358 |
| NIH project number | 5R61AI183471-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064036 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for HIV infection or those living with HIV who are seeking improved treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for HIV or those who have already developed advanced stages of HIV/AIDS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating an innovative mRNA vaccine aimed at enhancing the immune system's ability to respond to HIV. By utilizing mRNA technology, the study seeks to induce broadly neutralizing antibodies that can effectively target diverse strains of the virus. The approach involves understanding how mRNA vaccines can generate long-lasting germinal center responses, which are crucial for developing effective immunity. The research will explore the mechanisms that drive these immune responses and how they differ from traditional vaccine methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a more effective HIV vaccine that provides long-lasting protection against the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using mRNA technology for vaccines, such as those for SARS-CoV-2, has shown promising results, indicating potential for success in this novel approach for HIV.
Where this research is happening
-
La Jolla Institute for Immunology
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramezani-Rad, Parham — La Jolla Institute for Immunology
- Study coordinator: Ramezani-Rad, Parham
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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.