How HIV-1 spreads between cells and triggers immune responses
Official title: Activation of type I interferon production in human immune cells by cell-to-cell transmission of HIV-1
Funded at Albany College of Pharmacy · NIH-11190261 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how HIV-1 spreads between immune cells and triggers the body's defense system, focusing on a key pathway that helps detect the virus, to find ways to boost immune responses in people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albany College of Pharmacy NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | May 6, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $479,925 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AI192135-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11190261 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are interested in understanding immune responses related to their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not infected with HIV or those who have already achieved viral suppression may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how HIV-1, a virus that causes AIDS, spreads between immune cells and activates the body's immune response. The study focuses on the role of a specific signaling pathway called cGAS/STING, which is crucial for detecting viral infections. By using cell-based models, researchers aim to understand how direct cell-to-cell transmission of HIV-1 leads to the production of important immune signaling molecules called interferons. This could provide insights into improving immune responses in individuals living with HIV.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of HIV infection and lead to better therapeutic strategies for managing HIV/AIDS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding immune responses to viral infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Albany College of Pharmacy
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shi, Binshan — Albany College of Pharmacy
- Study coordinator: Shi, Binshan
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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.