HIV and the cell's cleanup system (autophagy)
New insights into the interplay between HIV and the autophagy machinery
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11115602
Researchers are looking at how HIV uses or blocks the cell’s cleanup system, autophagy, to help find new ways to help people living with HIV clear the virus.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11115602 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you’re living with HIV, the team is studying how your cells’ autophagy process can break down HIV proteins and how the virus’s Nef protein blocks that cleanup. They run lab experiments in infected cells and use molecular methods to track which viral parts are removed by autophagy and how Nef interferes. The work may include human-derived cells or samples to ensure relevance to people with HIV. The aim is to identify targets that could let therapies boost autophagy or block Nef so infected cells produce fewer infectious viruses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people living with HIV who are willing to donate blood or tissue samples or consider joining future trials that aim to boost cellular antiviral defenses.
Not a fit: People without HIV or those seeking immediate changes to their care are unlikely to gain direct clinical benefit from this lab-focused research in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatments that help cells remove HIV and lower virus levels in people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Laboratory studies have shown autophagy can reduce levels of some HIV proteins, but translating those findings into safe, effective treatments for people is largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SERRA MORENO, RUTH — UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: SERRA MORENO, RUTH
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.
Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus