How sexual activity and body factors shape genital bacteria that increase HIV risk
How sex, host microenvironment, and immune responses shape acquisition of genital bacteria that increase HIV risk
This project looks at how sexual behavior, the local body environment, and immune responses change genital bacteria in men that can raise the chance of getting HIV.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11235918 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you are a sexually active man, this work would collect genital samples and track changes in the penile microbiome over time to see which bacteria are picked up, lost, or persist. Researchers will link those bacterial patterns to sexual exposures, local physical factors (like moisture or skin conditions), and immune markers in the genital tissues. The team will use lab tests to characterize the bacteria and immune signals and follow participants to observe how bacteria move between partners. Findings aim to point to ways to prevent or reduce colonization by bacteria that make HIV infection more likely.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Sexually active cisgender men (especially those with female partners) who are willing to provide genital samples and attend follow-up visits would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who are not sexually active, people living with HIV, or those unwilling to provide genital samples or attend visits would not directly benefit from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new prevention approaches that reduce harmful genital bacteria or their immune effects, lowering the risk of heterosexual HIV transmission.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked certain genital and vaginal bacteria to higher HIV risk in women, but translating those findings to penile bacteria and prevention strategies in men is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- George Washington University — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Cindy — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Cindy
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.