Hidden HIV reservoirs in connective tissues and skin
Exploration into the Forgotten HIV Reservoir with Models of HIV/SIV Persistence in Mucosal Tissues
Researchers are looking for rare pockets of HIV that hide in body tissues of people living with HIV who are taking antiretroviral therapy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11381205 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you live with HIV and are on antiretroviral therapy, this project aims to find rare infected cells hiding in tissues such as mucosal sites, connective tissue, and skin. The team uses animal models (SIV-infected macaques), advanced lab assays, and studies of tissue samples and autopsy material to locate and study these reservoirs. Early findings point to mast cells as a possible site of hidden virus, and researchers will do ex vivo experiments to understand how these cells may contribute to rebound when treatment stops. The goal is to identify targets in tissues that could eventually be used to reduce or eliminate the HIV reservoir.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people living with HIV who are on stable antiretroviral therapy and who can donate tissue samples or participate in cure-focused research at participating centers.
Not a fit: People without HIV or those unwilling or unable to provide tissue samples are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets to clear hidden HIV and help reduce reliance on lifelong antiretroviral therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Related lab and animal studies have mapped tissue reservoirs and shown promising early data, but targeting mast cells as a reservoir is a relatively new and unproven approach in people.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hope, Thomas — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Hope, Thomas
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.