Engineering natural killer cells to target HIV reservoirs
Natural killer cell engineering to target the HIV reservoir
This study is exploring new ways to help your body's natural killer cells better find and destroy hidden HIV-infected cells, which could make it easier to manage the virus without needing to rely on lifelong medication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11053563 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative methods to enhance the ability of natural killer (NK) cells to eliminate HIV-infected cells that remain dormant in the body despite ongoing anti-retroviral therapy (ART). By using a 'kick and kill' strategy, the project aims to activate these latent cells and improve the NK cells' effectiveness in destroying them. The research employs advanced technologies and humanized mouse models to test these approaches, potentially leading to a reduction in the need for lifelong ART.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are currently on anti-retroviral therapy and have a detectable viral reservoir.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have already developed AIDS may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a functional cure for HIV, allowing patients to stop ART without the virus re-emerging.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using NK cells for targeting HIV, but this specific engineering approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zack, Jerome a. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Zack, Jerome a.
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.