Exploring how HIV-1 avoids the immune system

Understanding Immune Evasion by HIV-1 Repliclones

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11089519

This study is looking at how certain HIV-1 cells manage to hide from the immune system and stick around even when people are on effective treatment, with the goal of finding better ways to target and get rid of these stubborn cells.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11089519 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which HIV-1 repliclones evade the immune system, particularly focusing on how these cells can persist despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART). The study aims to understand the role of transcriptional silence, dysfunctional immune responses, and mutations in the virus that allow it to escape immune clearance. By examining these factors, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the HIV reservoir and its behavior during treatment. This could lead to improved strategies for targeting and eliminating these persistent viral cells.

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 may have detectable low-level viremia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have not been on antiretroviral therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for HIV, potentially reducing the viral reservoir and improving long-term health outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding HIV reservoirs and immune evasion, indicating that this approach builds on established findings in the field.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.