How aging changes hidden HIV reservoirs
SIV reservoirs dynamics during aging
This project compares young and older antiretrovirus-treated animals to learn how aging alters hidden reservoirs of HIV-like virus relevant to people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11170660 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use SIV-infected rhesus macaques on antiretroviral therapy to mimic people living with HIV and compare young versus older animals. They will examine immune cells for age-related changes in DNA methylation, where viral DNA integrates into the genome, and the mix and function of T cell types. The team will also study brain immune cells and blood-brain barrier changes because aging can increase inflammation in the central nervous system. Results are meant to help explain why viral reservoirs may behave differently in older adults with HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV who are older adults and are on suppressive antiretroviral therapy are the most relevant group for these findings.
Not a fit: Children, people without HIV, or people not on antiretroviral therapy are unlikely to benefit directly from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could guide age-tailored strategies to reduce or eliminate viral reservoirs and improve cure approaches for older people living with HIV.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal and human sample studies have explored viral reservoirs, but the specific effects of aging on reservoir size, integration sites, and epigenetics are understudied, so this work addresses a recognized gap.
Where this research is happening
Omaha, United States
- University of Nebraska Medical Center — Omaha, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Acharya, Arpan — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Acharya, Arpan
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.