Evaluating a drug to reduce HIV in the brain
Phase II study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of baricitinib for reduction of HIV in the central nervous system
This study is looking at how well a medication called baricitinib can help lower HIV levels in the brain and spinal fluid of people living with HIV, with the hope of finding a way to reduce or even eliminate the need for lifelong treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10854805 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of baricitinib, a Janus Kinase inhibitor, to reduce HIV levels in the central nervous system (CNS) of individuals living with HIV. The study aims to address the challenges of HIV persistence despite antiretroviral therapy (ART) by targeting the CNS, which is known to harbor HIV reservoirs. Participants will undergo assessments to measure HIV RNA and DNA levels in their cerebrospinal fluid, helping to determine the efficacy and safety of the treatment. The ultimate goal is to find a potential cure for HIV, reducing 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 antiretroviral therapy and have detectable HIV in their cerebrospinal fluid.
Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who are not on ART may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a significant reduction in HIV levels in the brain, potentially paving the way for a cure and improving the quality of life for people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting HIV in the CNS, but this specific approach using baricitinib is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gavegnano, Christina — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Gavegnano, Christina
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.