Improving delivery of antibodies to treat brain infections in infants with HIV

Improved delivery of bNAbs for targeting CNS infection in infants

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11085596

This study is exploring a new way to help babies with HIV by using tiny capsules to deliver special antibodies directly to their brains, which could make their treatment more effective and help prevent serious health problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085596 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new method to deliver broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) to the central nervous system (CNS) of infants infected with HIV. Current treatments are limited in their ability to reach the CNS, where HIV can persist and cause neurological issues. The researchers are using innovative nanotechnology to create nanocapsules that can effectively transport these antibodies across the blood-brain barrier, potentially improving treatment outcomes for affected infants. By targeting the unique challenges of CNS infection, this research aims to enhance the effectiveness of HIV therapies in young patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants under 4 weeks old who are infected with HIV and may be experiencing or at risk for CNS-related complications.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 4 weeks or those who do not have HIV infection may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for infants with HIV, reducing neurological complications and improving their overall health.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using nanotechnology for drug delivery, but this specific approach targeting CNS infection in infants is relatively novel.

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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.