How HIV-1 infects CD4+ T cells through a process called macropinocytosis

Roles of Macropinocytosis in HIV-1 infection of CD4+ T Cells

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11109483

This study is looking at how HIV-1 gets into important immune cells called CD4+ T cells and how a special process called macropinocytosis helps with this, so we can find new ways to fight HIV/AIDS.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11109483 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of macropinocytosis, a unique cellular process, in how HIV-1 infects CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for the immune response. The team aims to understand the specific mechanisms of HIV-1 entry into these cells, focusing on how this process differs from previously studied methods. By examining the effects of inhibiting macropinocytosis, the researchers hope to uncover new insights into HIV-1 infection and its impact on immune function. This could lead to novel therapeutic strategies to combat HIV/AIDS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV/AIDS, particularly those with active CD4+ T cell involvement.

Not a fit: Patients who are not infected with HIV or those with other unrelated health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent HIV-1 from infecting immune cells, potentially improving outcomes for patients with HIV/AIDS.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on macropinocytosis in HIV-1 infection is relatively novel, other studies have successfully explored alternative entry mechanisms for viruses, indicating potential for impactful findings.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.