Developing specialized immune cells to help control HIV without medication
Official title: Generation of highly differentiated NK cells to act in synergy with broadly neutralizing antibodies to reduce the SIV reservoir and establish viral control in absence of ART
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10883005 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with HIV by using special immune cells and antibodies to target and reduce the virus in their bodies, with the hope that it could lead to better health without needing daily medication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 22, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $812,810 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AI167702-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10883005 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently on antiretroviral therapy and are interested in exploring new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are not on ART may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating highly specialized natural killer (NK) cells that can work alongside broadly neutralizing antibodies to target and reduce the viral reservoirs in individuals living with HIV. By studying the immune response in African green monkeys, the researchers aim to replicate the effective immune mechanisms that control the virus without the need for antiretroviral therapy (ART). The approach involves enhancing the activity of NK cells that can recognize and destroy HIV-infected cells, potentially leading to better management of the virus in patients. Patients may benefit from this innovative strategy that seeks to establish viral control and improve overall health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that allow individuals with HIV to maintain viral control without continuous medication.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in enhancing immune responses against HIV, suggesting that this approach could be a viable strategy.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Paiardini, Mirko — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Paiardini, Mirko
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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.