Improving B cells to better control HIV

Engineering B cells for enhanced HIV control

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11009399

This study is looking at a way to help your body's B cells make special antibodies that can fight HIV better, using a technique called CRISPR to give them a boost, so they can work more effectively even when T cells are not as supportive.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11009399 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the ability of B cells to produce antibodies that can effectively control HIV. By using CRISPR gene editing, the researchers aim to engineer B cells to secrete custom antibodies known as broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). These engineered B cells could act as living drugs, responding to HIV and providing a more effective immune response. The project also seeks to address the challenges faced by B cells in individuals living with HIV, particularly their need for support from T cells to function properly.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who may benefit from enhanced immune responses.

Not a fit: Patients who are not living with HIV or those who have advanced stages of the disease with no viable immune response may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel therapy that significantly improves the immune response against HIV in patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using gene editing and engineered immune cells for various conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome Virus, Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.