How a CMV-based vaccine and IL-15 boost immune protection against an HIV-like virus
Mechanisms programming Protective Immunity from RhCMV-SIV Vaccine and IL-15 actions
['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-11164752
Looks at whether a CMV-based vaccine together with IL-15 can train immune cells to stop an HIV-like virus in primates and help guide future human HIV vaccines.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11164752 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses rhesus macaques (a monkey model) to learn how a cytomegalovirus-based vaccine (RhCMV/SIV) programs T cells to intercept and clear an HIV-like virus. It focuses on the role of IL-15, a signaling protein that rises after vaccination, and whether that response helps long-lived, tissue-based CD8+ T cells control infection. The team measures viral levels, immune cell behavior in blood and tissues, and molecular signals that predict which animals are protected. Results aim to explain why some vaccinated animals clear the virus and to inform vaccine approaches that could be tested in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV or individuals at high risk for HIV exposure would be the likely candidates for future human trials based on these results.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical animal research, patients should not expect direct personal benefit or immediate access to a new treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point the way to vaccines that prime durable, tissue-based immune cells able to prevent or clear HIV infection.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies in macaques with the RhCMV/SIV vaccine have shown promising protection and instances of viral clearance, but translation to humans remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA — MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GALE, MICHAEL — UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
- Study coordinator: GALE, MICHAEL
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