Editing B cells to create antibodies against HIV
Official title: Vectored HIV Immunotherapy via in vivo B cell editing
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11003790 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with HIV by changing their own B cells to make special antibodies that can fight the virus, with the hope of creating a stronger and longer-lasting immune response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,272,001 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174270-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003790 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals living with HIV who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on a novel approach to treat HIV by genetically modifying B cells within the body to produce antibodies that can neutralize the virus. The method involves using gene editing techniques to enhance the immune response against HIV, allowing the body to generate its own broadly neutralizing antibodies. By modifying B cells in vivo, the research aims to simplify the process and improve the effectiveness of HIV immunotherapy, potentially leading to long-lasting immunity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new way for patients to develop their own immune defenses against HIV, potentially leading to a functional cure.
How similar studies have gone: While gene therapy approaches for HIV have been explored, the specific method of in vivo B cell editing is relatively novel and has not been widely tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Curiel, David Terry — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Curiel, David Terry
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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.