How HIV envelope proteins engage B cell receptors
Project 2 - B cell antigen receptor structure and antigen-BCR interaction dynamics
Looking at how HIV's envelope protein binds to B cells to help design vaccines that trigger powerful antibodies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11397295 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use high-resolution imaging (cryo-EM), molecular simulations, and biochemical tests to map how HIV Env proteins attach to B cell receptors. They will examine different signaling 'states' of BCRs and test interactions with receptors that lead to broadly neutralizing antibodies or their germline precursors. The work uses purified proteins, engineered B cells or BCRs, and lab-based activation assays rather than giving vaccines to people. Results aim to show which immunogens best activate B cells and guide future HIV vaccine design.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults willing to donate blood or immune cells, including people living with HIV or healthy volunteers who can travel to the research site, would be the most relevant participants.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate clinical treatment or a cure for HIV should not expect direct personal benefit from this laboratory-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could guide design of HIV vaccines that better stimulate broadly neutralizing antibodies and improve prevention.
How similar studies have performed: Structural mapping and germline-targeting approaches have helped guide immunogen design for HIV and other viruses, but reliably eliciting broadly neutralizing antibodies in people remains a major challenge.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alam, S. Munir — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Alam, S. Munir
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.