Enhancing CAR-T cell therapy for HIV treatment through autophagy induction

Induction of autophagy to enhance CAR-T cells in HIV cure approaches

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11084432

This study is looking at how a process called autophagy can help improve CAR-T cell therapy for people living with HIV, making these special immune cells work better and last longer to fight the virus.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11084432 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how inducing autophagy can improve the effectiveness of CAR-T cells in treating HIV. By enhancing the function and longevity of these engineered immune cells, the study aims to overcome challenges such as immune exhaustion caused by chronic HIV infection. The researchers will use a humanized mouse model to explore the potential of autophagy in boosting CAR-T cell activity and facilitating the safe reversal of HIV latency. This approach could lead to more effective therapies for achieving a functional cure for HIV.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic HIV infection who have not responded adequately to standard antiretroviral therapies.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have acute HIV infections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for HIV, potentially allowing for a functional cure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using autophagy induction to enhance immune responses, suggesting that this approach may be effective in HIV treatment as well.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.