HLA-F and KIR3DS1: unlocking NK cell help to control HIV
Official title: Deciphering the role of HLA-F and KIR3DS1 on NK function and HIV pathogenesis
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-11553296 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A short, patient-friendly look at how a specific immune interaction might help the body control HIV and reduce long-term health problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | August 7, 2026 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $781,999 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AI203554-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11553296 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults with HIV infection whose immune systems can be studied to understand NK cell function and receptor interactions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with HIV who do not have a measurable NK cell response or who cannot participate in immune studies may see no direct benefit.
What this research studies
This grant studies how natural killer (NK) cells use receptors like KIR3DS1 and HLA-F to recognize and kill HIV-infected cells, with the aim of finding ways to enhance this immune response. Researchers will explore how this pathway affects HIV progression and whether it could be boosted to support a functional cure. The work involves translating basic immune biology into ideas that could eventually inform new treatments or preventive strategies for people living with HIV. It may include analysis of immune cells from patients and laboratory experiments to understand the underlying mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could identify targets to strengthen the immune system’s ability to control HIV and reduce disease-related complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have linked NK cell receptors to slower HIV progression, suggesting this line of research could yield meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bosque, Alberto — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Bosque, Alberto
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.