Engineering B cells to produce antibodies against HIV
In vivo engineering of B cells for the secretion of HIV broadly neutralizing antibodies
This study is testing a new way to help people with HIV by using gene therapy to teach their immune cells to make special antibodies that can fight the virus, potentially leading to long-lasting protection.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10985005 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on a novel gene therapy approach to create a functional cure for HIV by engineering B cells to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). Using advanced gene editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, the researchers aim to insert bnAb genes into the B cells' DNA, allowing these cells to produce antibodies that can effectively target and neutralize the HIV virus. The study involves delivering these gene-editing tools directly to the B cells, which could lead to long-lasting immunity against HIV. Patients may benefit from this innovative approach if it successfully generates a robust immune response against the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking innovative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a functional cure for HIV, significantly improving the quality of life for patients living with the virus.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using gene editing for therapeutic purposes, but this specific approach targeting B cells for HIV treatment is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Scripps Research Institute, the — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Voss, James Even — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Voss, James Even
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 below.