How diet and metabolism affect HIV-1 reservoirs in the body

The intersection of diet, cell metabolic state, and SIV reservoir transcription

NIH-funded research Tulane University of Louisiana · NIH-10904659

This study is looking at how what you eat and your body's metabolism affect certain immune cells that can hide the HIV virus, with the goal of finding better treatment options for people living with HIV, especially those who also have type 2 diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTulane University of Louisiana NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Orleans, United States)
Project IDNIH-10904659 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between diet, metabolic states, and the behavior of HIV-1 reservoirs in the body, specifically focusing on resting memory CD4 T cells. The study aims to understand how these cells, which can harbor the virus, respond to dietary factors and insulin signaling. By exploring the effects of latency reversal agents on these reservoirs, the research seeks to identify more effective treatment strategies for individuals living with HIV-1, particularly those with co-existing conditions like type 2 diabetes. The approach includes both clinical and pre-clinical trials to assess the impact of these factors on HIV-1 transcriptional activity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals living with HIV-1, particularly those who also have type 2 diabetes or other metabolic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV-1 or do not have related metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for reducing HIV-1 reservoirs, potentially paving the way for a functional cure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown some success with latency reversal agents in small cohorts, but this research aims to broaden the understanding by including a more diverse patient population.

Where this research is happening

New Orleans, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome VirusAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.