How HIV affects the spread and mutation of the COVID-19 virus

The effect of HIV on SARS-CoV-2 transmission and emergence of variants of concern

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-11144019

This study is looking at how having HIV might affect how long someone can carry the COVID-19 virus and whether that could lead to new variants, so we can better understand and manage the spread of COVID-19, especially in communities with a lot of HIV.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-11144019 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between HIV infection and the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. It focuses on how individuals with weakened immune systems due to HIV may carry the virus longer and potentially contribute to the emergence of new variants. By analyzing genomic data and clinical information, the study aims to understand the dynamics of viral evolution in populations with high HIV prevalence. This could help inform public health strategies to control COVID-19 spread.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who may be at risk for prolonged SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or are not at risk for severe COVID-19 infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing COVID-19 transmission in individuals living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that chronic infections can lead to viral mutations, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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 Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.