How gene editing can improve resistance to HIV in human cells
Official title: Mechanisms that Enhance and Suppress HIV-1 Resistance in Gene Edited Primary Human Cells
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11310269 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with HIV by using a special technology to change their own blood cells, making them better at fighting off the virus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 4R00HL172253-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11310269 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who have not responded well to conventional treatments or are seeking alternative therapeutic options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have advanced AIDS with significant immune system damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of CRISPR technology to modify a patient's own blood cells to enhance their resistance to HIV. By targeting specific genes, the study aims to delete the CCR5 co-receptor, which HIV uses to enter cells, and introduce inhibitory peptides that can further block the virus. The approach focuses on editing hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells, which are crucial for producing immune cells. The goal is to achieve a high efficiency of gene editing that can prevent HIV from replicating effectively in the body.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new, safer method for curing HIV without the risks associated with traditional stem cell transplants.
How similar studies have gone: While gene editing for HIV resistance is a novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar strategies, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dudek, Amanda M — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Dudek, Amanda M
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.