Gene therapy to eliminate HIV using blood stem cells
Official title: In vivo HSC gene therapy using a multi-modular HDAd vector for HIV cure
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11002282 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to treat HIV using a simpler method that involves injecting a special treatment into your bloodstream to help your body's own stem cells fight the virus, aiming for a long-lasting solution without the need for heavy chemotherapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | January 10, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,399,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI174304-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002282 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS with severe complications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treat HIV by using gene therapy on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Instead of the traditional method that requires high-dose chemotherapy and complex procedures, this study aims to develop a simpler, outpatient treatment that involves injecting gene transfer vectors directly into the bloodstream. The goal is to mobilize HSCs from the bone marrow, modify them to target HIV, and then allow them to return to the bone marrow where they can produce healthy blood cells. This method could potentially provide a long-lasting solution for HIV eradication.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safe and effective cure for HIV, significantly improving the quality of life for patients living with the virus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous cases, such as the 'Berlin' and 'London' patients, have shown that HSC transplantation can effectively eliminate HIV, suggesting that this approach has potential based on successful precedents.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lieber, Andre Michael — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Lieber, Andre Michael
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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.