Finding ways to deliver HIV-fighting antibodies using a safe viral vector
Official title: Overcoming preexisting antibodies to recombinant AAV vectors in rhesus macaques
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11067838 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to deliver HIV-fighting antibodies using a special virus, and it’s for people who want better treatments for HIV, as it aims to improve how well these antibodies can work by reducing some natural blockers in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | April 5, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $187,254 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI184207-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067838 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals with a history of HIV infection who may benefit from enhanced antibody delivery methods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have HIV or those who have never been exposed to AAV vectors may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how to effectively deliver antibodies that can neutralize HIV using a viral vector known as adeno-associated virus (AAV). The study focuses on overcoming the challenge posed by preexisting antibodies in the human population that can hinder the effectiveness of AAV delivery. By temporarily reducing these antibodies in rhesus macaques, the researchers aim to enhance the delivery of anti-HIV antibodies. The ultimate goal is to create a reliable method for using AAV vectors in HIV treatment and prevention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for HIV by improving the delivery of therapeutic antibodies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using AAV vectors for gene delivery, but overcoming preexisting antibodies remains a novel challenge that this study aims to address.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez-Navio, Jose Maria — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Martinez-Navio, Jose Maria
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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.