How HIV becomes resistant to broadly neutralizing antibodies in people
Defining the mechanisms of HIV resistance to bNAbs in humans
Researchers are working to understand how HIV in people can escape powerful antibodies so antibody-based treatments work better for people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11323172 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you have HIV, this project looks at viruses and blood samples from people to see how the virus changes when exposed to broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). The team will compare viral genetic changes, test those viral variants against different bNAbs in the lab, and map the specific mutations that allow escape. They will study samples from people who received antibodies or who developed antibody responses naturally to learn which antibody combinations hold the virus down best. The goal is to use those findings to guide better antibody combinations and treatment strategies for people living with HIV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people living with HIV who can provide blood samples and may be on or willing to pause ART for closely monitored antibody-related studies, depending on the protocol.
Not a fit: People without HIV or people whose virus already carries resistance to the antibodies being studied would not be expected to gain direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could help design antibody treatments that keep HIV suppressed longer and reduce the chance the virus becomes resistant.
How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical work showed single bNAbs often produce only temporary drops in virus with rapid resistance, while some combinations have maintained suppression in people whose viruses were sensitive.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Rockefeller University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Caskey, Marina — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Caskey, Marina
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 below.