Developing RNA-based molecules to target and degrade HIV-1 proteins

RNA-based PROTACs Targeting HIV-1

NIH-funded research Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego · NIH-10674998

This study is working on new ways to create special molecules that can help get rid of tough proteins linked to HIV, which could lead to better treatments and possibly a functional cure for people living with the virus.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-10674998 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating innovative molecules that can target and degrade proteins associated with HIV-1, which are often difficult to address using traditional drug discovery methods. By combining PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimeras (PROTACs) with RNA aptamers, the project aims to develop a system that can effectively eliminate these 'undruggable' proteins. This approach could help in targeting proteins that allow HIV to evade the immune system and maintain latency, which are significant challenges in curing HIV infection. Patients may benefit from this research as it explores new avenues for treatment that could lead to a functional cure for HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV-1 who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV-1 or those who have already achieved viral suppression may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that effectively eliminate HIV-1 from the body.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using RNA-based PROTACs is relatively novel, similar strategies targeting undruggable proteins have shown promise in other areas of research.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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 Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.