How HIV hides inside macrophages to avoid antibody-driven NK cell killing
Discovery of viral and host pathways that protect HIV-infected macrophages from NK cell ADCC
This project looks at how HIV-infected macrophages dodge antibody-guided natural killer (NK) cell killing, aiming to help people living with HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11264922 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will study macrophages and NK cells in the lab using HIV-infected human cells and antibodies to find how macrophages block the NK cell signals that normally trigger antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). They will compare responses of macrophages to CD4+ T cells and identify viral and host proteins that interfere with NK activation. The team will test whether changing target molecules or using alternative immune approaches, such as CAR T cells or modified antibodies, can overcome this resistance. Results are intended to point toward therapies that reach virus hidden in macrophage reservoirs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with HIV, particularly those on antiretroviral therapy with persistent viral reservoirs or who are willing to provide blood or tissue samples, would be the likely participants or donors.
Not a fit: People without HIV or those unwilling to provide samples or travel for research are unlikely to get direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new antibody- or cell-based therapies that clear HIV hiding in macrophages and shrink the persistent viral reservoir.
How similar studies have performed: Broadly neutralizing antibody trials have shown promise in lowering HIV levels, but specifically overcoming macrophage resistance to ADCC is a newer and not yet proven approach.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clayton, Kiera L. — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Clayton, Kiera L.
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.